Natural Awakenings Washington DC June 2013

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feel good • live simply • laugh more

LIFE LIFT

FREE

The Secrets to Happiness

Marijuana Fresh on Laws in DC the Grill Medical Cannabis in the District

Savor Summer’s Garden Bounty

June 2013 | Washington, D.C. Edition

Reframing Priorities

How Men Can Pursue Spiritual Growth | NaturalAwakeningsDC.com natural awakenings

June 2013

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Working in collaboration with George Washington University Medical School, the Center offers complete medical care to all patients regardless of complexity of their medical problems. For years we have been the referral center for many physicians in the area for complex chronic medical problems such as: • • • • • • •

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letterfrompublisher Welcome June, the start of glorious summer. I love

contact us Publisher Robin Fillmore Advertising Sales Robin Fillmore Terri Carr Editors Linda Sechrist Robin Fillmore Sharon Hadden Contributing Editors Grace Ogden Jessica Bradshaw Design & Production Irene Sankey Multi-Market Advertising 239-449-8309 Franchise Sales John Voell: 239-530-1377 Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C. Phone: 202-505-4835 Fax: 202-827-7955 P.O. Box 2976, Washington, D.C. 20013 Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com NaturalAwakeningsDC.com ©2013 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved.

Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing.

Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected stores, health and education centers, healing centers, public libraries and wherever free publications are generally seen. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

the shift from spring to summer with joyful memories of the last days of the school year and the promise of a season free to explore and travel, be silly with my girlfriends, and read lots of books. As an adult, it continues to be a month that inspires great happiness in me.

That feeling of happiness and inspired living is this month’s theme. We all hold a hunger for happiness although each one of us holds our own short list of factors that, we believe, contributes to a life of bliss. I recently watched a wonderful documentary simply called Happy. It made me so happy that I watched it twice! Director and storyteller Roko Belic presents decades of research on happiness, a growing field of study. The film is full to overflowing of interesting information and stories of pain that led to eventual happiness. The film also documents how the country of Bhutan has begun to measure Gross Domestic Happiness, along with other areas of growth. What affected me the most was the research that showed our path to happiness is not in acquiring things. Belic says “People who express their love—who rejoice in the health and happiness of others—are more likely to feel loved and happy themselves.” He confirms something that was my own belief, even before seeing the movie—happiness is a choice.

Our feature article, Life Lift by Judith Fertig, explores this month’s theme of happiness. We supplement that piece with a short piece by you, our readers. My team, Sharon and Terri, and I have been out in the community, meeting so many of you at expos and events. We took those opportunities to ask what makes you happy. To see a short clip of these interviews, visit our Facebook page.

Also in this issue, you will find important information about changes to the District’s new laws on medical marijuana by Dr. Mikhail Kogan and great tips for keeping your skin safe in the summer months from First Lady Michelle Obama’s personal esthetician JoElle Lee. As we celebrate Father’s Day on June 16, our health briefs offer new information on keeping the men in your life as healthy as they can be.

Here’s to summer living and being happy –

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscribe online to receive FREE monthly digital magazine at NaturalAwakeningsDC.com.

Natural Awakenings of Washington, D.C., is a faithful steward of global resources. We are delighted to be part of an environmentally conscious community and therefore manufacture this magazine utilizing the environmentally-friendly cold-set web printing process which emits virtually immeasurable VOC's into the environment. This product is 100% recyclable.

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Washington, D.C.

Robin Fillmore, Publisher

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contents 6 newsbriefs 9 eventspotlight 10 healthbriefs 12 globalbriefs 13 community

Natural Awakenings is your guide to a healthier, more balanced life. In each issue readers find cutting-edge information on natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle.

14 THE SILENT KILLER

Depression in Men

spotlight 10

14 therapyspotlight 16 REFRAMING PERSONAL 129 15 ecotip PRIORITIES

Craig Hamilton Explores the 16 wisewords Gender Gap in Spiritual Growth

17 greenliving 22 healthykids 18 LIFE LIFT 24 consciouseating

Being Happy from 15 27 bestpractices the Inside Out

28 calendar 20 DC’S NEW 32 resourceguide MARIJUANA LAWS

18

by Adam Miramon

by Kim Childs

by Judith Fertig

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 202-505-4835 or email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com. Deadline for ads: the 10th of the month.

Editorial submissions Email articles, news items and ideas to: Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com. Deadline for editorial: feature articles are due by the 5th of the month, news briefs and health briefs are due by the 10th. calendar submissions Submit Calendar Events online: NaturalAwakeningsDC.com within the advertising section.

Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets!

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 239-449-8309. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

Medical Cannabis in the District

by Mikhail Kogan, M.D.

20

22 MINDFULNESS IN

SCHOOLS

New Program Installs Calm

in the Classroom

by Jesse Torrence

24 GROW, PICK, GRILL

Making the Most of Summer’s Bounty

by Claire O’Neil

26 SUMMER SKIN

Michelle Obama’s Esthetician Shares Her Secrets

By JoElle Lee

24 27

27 FARM TO TABLE

Arcadia’s Growing Vision for the DC Area

by Grace Ogden

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com natural awakenings

June 2013

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newsbriefs Celebrate Fairfax!

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he Celebrate Fairfax! Festival, Northern Virginia’s largest community-wide celebration, will be held June 7 to 9 at the Fairfax County Government Center. Presented by Celebrate Fairfax, Inc., the annual festival hosts thousands of visitors during its three-day run. The 25-acre site is filled with the sights and sounds of more than 300 exhibitors, vendors, crafters and interactive activities.

Celebrate Fairfax! showcases live concerts on eight stages, carnival rides, and even a petting zoo. Enjoy great festival foods while taking in the ExxonMobil Children’s Avenue, the Fairfax County Karaoke Championship and the Inova Train Ride to Good Health. Nightly fireworks, presented by SAIC, are a highlight of the festival, and one of many great family programs.

This year’s Main Stage features top national performers: The B-52s, Spin Doctors and the Summerland Tour 2013 - Alternative Guitars starring Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge!

Celebrate Fairfax! signature program, GREENOLOGY, educates and motivates guests on leading a greener and healthier life. Incorporating highly interactive activities, educational exhibits, and eco-friendly presentations, GREENOLOGY provides a better understanding of green living and the opportunities for positives changes and initiatives in their everyday lives.

GREENOLOGY features the Rock Wall, a fun fitness challenge, and the “Fairfax is Beautiful” Photo Competition, showcasing the natural beauty of our local environment. Also featured are Fairfax County Solid Waste Management’s Educational Tent and the Dominion Virginia Power stage, which offers demonstrations, lectures and performances for attendees, providing guidance to a more sustainable lifestyle.

For more information about the 2013 Celebrate Fairfax! Festival or for tickets, visit CelebrateFairfax.com.

Love Your Body–Northern Virginia Yoga and Wellness Day

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oga studios and wellness centers of Northern Virginia will offer classes, provide services, and share information at the Love Your Body – Northern Virginia Yoga and Wellness Day on Sunday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Reston Town Center in Reston.

The 5th Annual Love Your Body Day, presented

by Beloved Yoga, features activities for the whole family, including live music on stage, complimentary massages, energy healing demonstrations, healthy food samples, plus opportunities to learn about alternative healing therapies such as Reiki, chiropractic, massage and yoga. At the Kids’ Yoga Tent, children of all ages are welcome to enjoy free classes and activities all day. Love Your Body Day will also offer drawings for free yoga classes, massages, and other services, plus giveaways. Admission is free. For class participation and services, donations to benefit Reston Interfaith are encouraged.

Location: 11900 Market St., Reston.

For more information about the 5th Annual Love Your Body Day, call 703860-9642 or visit BelovedYoga.com.

See ad, page17.

News to share?

Email details to: Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com Submittal deadline is the 10th of the month.

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BodySmith Gym Inspires Neighborhood Growth

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or 15 years, BodySmith Personal Training had been a fixture within the Dupont and Logan Circle neighborhoods, providing private studio personal training to a multitude of clients in the DC area. It recently moved into a brand new and expanded location, giving life to BodySmith Gym.

Owner, Stuart Smith began his career as a personal trainer and quickly realized the value of developing a system to work with individuals at his own gym. After starting in a meager 1,700- square-foot training studio on 18th St NW, the studio expanded to a 6,000-square-foot studio and has evolved into BodySmith Gym. The gym is housed in a two-story facility, complete with 5,500 square feet of private personal training and a separate and light-filled open and airy 8,000-squarefoot membership gym. The new gym transformed an old auto repair shop and is the perfect building for a gym. The reinforced walls and ceiling provide a sturdy space while the large windows let in a lot of natural light. BodySmith Gym is unique among fitness centers as it provides these separate spaces for those working out with trainers and those working out on their own.

Along with a slew of new Woodway Treadmills, Precor Elliptical Trainers, Jacob’s Ladder, and other cardio machines, a circuit training area is available, stocked with a full line of Cybex Eagle selectorized equipment and a full array of freeweight strength training equipment. There are also dedicated spaces for spinning and other group fitness classes, as well as JuicyMax, the gym’s juice bar, which will offer fresh coldpressed and Vita-Mix juices, protein shakes, coffee, tea, and healthful snacks, all organic when possible.

Smith has been encouraged to see the growth in his changing neighborhood. He has witnessed its tremendous development, first with the addition of Whole Foods on P Street and all the new businesses and restaurants that soon followed.

And there is more to come­—Smith plans to build new open space on the roof for classes and gatherings in the next phase of construction. This will provide even greater options for the neighborhood to gather, to work out and to enjoy good health together.

For more information about BodySmith Gym, visit BodySmith Gym.com.

Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present. ~Jim Rohn natural awakenings

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newsbriefs Renewal Energy Expo on the Hill

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n June 12, from 9:30am to 4:30pm, in the Caucus Room of the Cannon House Office Building, the Sustainable Energy Coalition, in cooperation with Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Caucuses, will host the 16th Annual Congressional Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency EXPO and Forum. Partnerships of the EXPO include the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, Congressional Energy Savings Performance Contract Caucus, High Performance Building Caucus, Green Schools Caucus, and Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Caucus.

This year’s EXPO will bring together nearly fifty businesses, sustainable energy industry trade associations, government agencies, and energy policy research organizations to showcase a cross-section of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. The morning program, beginning at 11:30 a.m., will feature members of the U.S. Congress and throughout the day speakers will discuss the role sustainable energy technologies can play in meeting America’s energy needs.

As Congress, the Administration, the business community, environmental advocates, and American voters search for options to stimulate the economy and green jobs, as well as address issues of national security, higher energy costs, increased reliance on energy imports and the environmental threats associated with energy consumption, the EXPO will help address the role that sustainable energy technologies might play. This will include not only the technical aspects of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies but also related issues such as economics, jobs potential, environmental benefits, current and near-term market potential, model programs in the public and private sectors, and institutional, financial and legal barriers.

For more information about the 16th Annual Congressional Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency EXPO and Forum, contact Ken Bossong, Sustainable Energy Coalition, at KBossong614@ yahoo.com or KBossong@hotmail.com.

Phoenix Bikes Raises Up Old Bikes and Young People

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hoenix Bikes, a financially and environmentally sustainable nonprofit bike shop in Arlington, empowers local youth to become social entrepreneurs through direct participation iN its community programs. Their programs are designed to teach youth how to restore out-of-service bikes as they work their way toward earning their own bike. In the process, they build free bicycles for needy people in the community, learn business skills from staff mentors, and participate in culturally relevant bike rides.

Ever, an 8thgrade student from Kenmore Middle School recently graduated from the Phoenix Bikes program. An immigrant from El Salvador, living with his single mom and sister, boredom and youthful mischief lead him into a series of bad decisions costing him a twoweek stint in juvenile detention. On the advice of his school counselor and parole officer, Ever came to Phoenix Bikes. Since last May, he has earned a few bikes for himself, friends, and family and now works at Phoenix Bikes part time—sharpening his mechanic skills, sharing his knowledge with less experienced youth, and most importantly, staying out of trouble.

Youth mechanics become leaders, building physically, socially, and ecologically healthy communities. Many youth stay at the shop long after earning their first bike, teaching their peers and gaining confidence. Program graduates become agents of social change and can be spotted teaching bike mechanics in area schools, working in the local bike community and advocating for recycled bicycles as a means of sustainable transit and physical health.

Phoenix Bikes is located at 4200 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington. For more information, visit PhoenixBikes.org.

The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it. ~Molière

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Organic Nutrition as a Lifestyle

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he search for healthy, nutritious food options often proves to be a hardship amidst one hour lunch breaks and fast food restaurants. In 2010, computer programmer, Rachan Malhotra, walked out of his downtown DC office looking for lunch, and it became clear that most of the food he found was neither healthy nor nutritious. This realization set him on a path with a new passion and a new career.

Malhotra had been aware of the value of good food since his father’s stroke in 2009. He recalls being shocked at the unhealthy meals offered to recovering hospital patients and decided to look into alternatives that would help restore his father to full health. His first step was to learn the benefits of Ayurveda and fresh, homemade vegetable juices. Within a few weeks of trying these alternative meals, his father’s halfparalyzed body began to transform, and today he is virtually back to normal. Through this experience, Malhotra saw the power of fresh juices.

Starting with Rolls On Rolls, a food truck that offers DC residents healthy Indian fare, Malhotra set out to radically change how we fuel our bodies. He soon started selling Alive Juices, thereby taking a deeper dive into health and nutrition, as well as enjoying the amazing testimonials and increased interest from those who drink his juices and cleanses. Orders are placed by phone and fresh, organic juices, containing nutrition powerhouses such as nuts, seeds, sprouts and ayurvedic herbs are delivered to any address in the District.

For more of Malhotra’s story and information about Alive Juices, visit AliveJuices.com.

Never be bullied into silence.

Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself. ~Harvey Fierstein

eventspotlight Join us for BuddhaFest

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he fourth annual BuddhaFest will take place June 20 to 23 at Artisphere in the Rosslyn section of Arlington. The festival presents a lively mix of films, talks, meditation and music.

It’s a Buddhist-inspired gathering featuring a diverse group of speakers who will be teaching the dharma from various perspectives. You will hear from a Toltec teacher, a Unitarian Universalist minister, and a young Indian yogi and guru, as well as several Buddhist teachers. Appearing for the first time at the festival will be renowned Tibetan scholar Bob Thurman, who will be sharing the stage with popular author and teacher Sharon Salzberg.

This year’s films include a deeply spiritual trip represented by a motorcycle expedition into the highest Himalayan passes, a meditation on the relationship between the human body and our ailing planet, and the opening night film, One Track Heart, a joyous celebration of kirtan music superstar Krishna Das. Six films will be screened at the festival, and most of the directors will be present to discuss their films with the audience.

New this year at BuddhaFest will be Tibet Fest, an afternoon dedicated to Tibet and its culture, sponsored by the International Campaign for Tibet and the Capital Area Tibetan Association. The gathering will feature speakers, meditation, music and food, as well as activities for kids.

In what’s becoming a tradition at BuddhaFest, Saturday night is devoted to a concert. This year, audiences will be treated to the sacred music of the GuruGanesha Band, which delivers a unique blend of kirtan, raga, rock and deeply meditative folk music.

The festival is sponsored by Tricycle.com, the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, The Center for Consciousness and Transformation at George Mason University, and Natural Awakenings.

Tickets and passes are now available at BuddhaFest.org. See ad, page 36.

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by Irene Sankey natural awakenings

June 2013

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healthbriefs

PSA Testing Controversy

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en face a new dilemma at their annual physical this year—should they be screened for prostate cancer? Last year, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended against routine screening for this form of cancer, regardless of age. Some doctors claim this will cause treatable prostate cancer cases to be missed.

The level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the prostate gland, can be measured with a simple blood test. Until the USPSTF issued its recommendation, doctors routinely used the test to screen men 50 and older. The task force, however, concluded there is at least moderate certainty that the potential harms of PSA testing outweigh the benefits; many benign conditions, particularly prostate infections and enlargement, can elevate PSA readings higher than normal, prompting more aggressive testing.

Before deciding on the test, it helps for men to explore this issue with their doctor. Some physicians take a “wait and see” approach and retest several times over a few months before making a recommendation; others suggest an immediate biopsy if PSA levels are high. While a blood test is a benign procedure, a prostate biopsy is not. A high PSA reading coupled with an overly aggressive doctor can cause anxiety and result in additional—and possibly unneeded—medical treatment.

Flavonoids Protect Men Against Parkinson’s

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indings published in the journal Neurology add to a growing body of evidence that regular consumption of flavonoids, found in berries, teas, apples and red wines, can positively affect human health. According to new research on 130,000 men and women undertaken by Harvard University, in Boston, and the UK’s University of East Anglia, men that regularly consumed the most flavonoid-rich foods were 40 percent less likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than those that ate the least.

No similar protective link was found for women. It is the first human study to show that flavonoids can help protect neurons against diseases of the brain.

Source: James Occhiogrosso, ProstateHealthNaturally.com

Sports and Music: A Winning Combination

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istening to our favorite music, whatever the genre, can increase both our enjoyment of and performance levels in competitive sports participation. Keele University researchers, presenting these findings at the 2012 British Psychological Society annual conference, noted that playing selected tunes reduces perceived exertion levels, plus increases one’s sense of being “in the zone”. The greatest effects were found with music used during structured training sessions. Previous studies showing that motivational music in general boosts performance did not include exploring the effects of listening to one’s favorite music.

A Father’s Love is Critical

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ased on 36 studies from around the world involving more than 10,000 participants, researchers at the University of Connecticut, in Mansfield, concluded that a father’s love contributes as much—and sometimes more—to a child’s development as a mother’s love. The critical importance of fatherly love to a youngster’s healthy development provides added incentive for men to become more involved in nurturing child care.

Source: Society for Personality and Social Psychology 10

Washington, D.C.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Excessive Dietary Fat May Hinder Conception

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ne reason for a couple’s inability to conceive could be linked to too much fat in the male’s diet. A study by Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital of 99 U.S. men uncovered an association between a high fat intake and lower sperm count and concentration.

Results were published in the journal Human Reproduction.

Men that consumed the most saturated fats had a 35 percent lower total sperm count and 38 percent lower sperm concentration than men that ate the least amount of such fats. Moreover, men that ate more omega-3 polyunsaturated fats—the type of healthful fat often found in fish and plant oils—had better-formed sperm than men that ate less.

Fruits and Veggies Can Help Us Kick Butts

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he first long-term study on the relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and smoking cessation offers good news: Eating more healthy produce can help smokers quit the habit and remain tobacco-free longer.

Researchers from New York’s University of Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions surveyed 1,000 smokers ages 25 and over from around the country.

In a 14-month follow-up, they were asked if they had abstained from tobacco use during the previous month. Those that consumed the most produce were three times more likely to have been tobacco-free for at least 30 days than those that ate the least amount of produce.

Smokers with greater fruit and vegetable consumption also smoked fewer cigarettes per day, waited longer to smoke their first one and scored lower on a common test of nicotine dependence. The findings, published online in the Nicotine and Tobacco Research journal, remained consistent even when adjusted for age, gender, race, ethnicity, education and household income.

Resveratrol Can Aid Prostate Cancer Treatment

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t’s already known that resveratrol, a compound found in grape skins and red wine, can improve cardiovascular health and help prevent strokes. Now a University of Missouri School of Medicine (Columbia) researcher has discovered that it can make prostate tumor cells more susceptible to radiation treatment, increasing the likelihood of a full recovery from all types of prostate cancer, including aggressive tumors.

Grilled Food Might Make Us Fat

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he summer tradition of barbecuing may prompt a need for caution, according to researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, in New York City. They have identified a common compound in grilled foods that could play a major role in the development of obesity and diabetes (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences).

The team, led by Helen Vlassara, a medical doctor and director of the Division of Experimental Diabetes and Aging, found that mice that were exposed on a sustained basis to the compound methylglyoxal—a type of advanced glycation end-product (AGE) produced when cooking with dry heat—developed significant abdominal weight gain, early insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Additionally, AGEs have been found to lower the body’s protective mechanisms that control inflammation.

The researchers recommend that we replace frequent grilling, which uses high dry heat, with methods that rely upon lower temperatures or more moisture, such as stewing, poaching or steaming.

Don’t Worry, Be Healthy

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he adage, “Don’t worry, be happy,” captures the essence of the first-ever metastudy of the relationship between happiness and heart health. Based on a comprehensive review involving 200-plus studies, researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health, in Boston, concluded that a positive outlook on life could help protect the heart from cardiovascular disease.

Julia Boehm, Ph.D., and Laura Kubzansky, Ph.D., discovered that certain psychological traits—optimism, positive emotions and a sense of meaning—both offer measurable protection against heart attacks and strokes and slow the progression of cardiovascular disease. The pair found that the most optimistic individuals had approximately 50 percent less chance of experiencing an initial cardiovascular event compared with their less upbeat peers.

“The absence of the negative is not the same thing as the presence of the positive,” notes Boehm. “Psychology has been trying to fix what’s wrong with people, but there’s also an increasing interest in what people might be doing right.”

natural awakenings

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globalbriefs Tech Trash

Recycle All Electronic Products

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ith the average American household owning 24 electronic devices, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) estimates we are annually producing nearly 3 million tons of e-waste.

Tube-type TVs and computer monitors contain lead, while cell phones harbor toxic mercury, cadmium, arsenic and brominated flame retardants, all of which can leach from landfills into groundwater.

Alternatives include selling old phones or trading them in at a store, and buying a new phone only when necessary. For $10, Staples will recycle any brand of computer monitor, desktop and laptop computer, fax machine, printer or scanner. Dell products are accepted at no charge.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers information about local e-waste recycling and regulations regarding handling of electronic equipment at Tinyurl.com/EPAeWasteTips. For a global perspective, see the United Nations Environment Programme 2010 update at Tinyurl.com/UNeWasteReport.

Hot Stuff

New Technology Increases Solar Efficiency

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here is huge potential in solar power, but our current methods of capturing the sun’s energy are limited as widely used silicon solar cells approach their theoretical limit of 33.7 percent efficiency. Now a Princeton University research team has applied nanotechnology principles to incorporate a design that significantly increases their efficacy.

Led by Stephen Chou, the team has made two dramatic improvements: reducing reflectivity and more effectively capturing the light that isn’t reflected. The new solar cell is much thinner and less reflective, capturing many more light waves via a minute mesh and bouncing off only about 4 percent of direct sunlight. The new design is capable of capturing a large amount of sunlight even when it’s cloudy, producing an 81 percent increase in efficiency even under indirect lighting conditions.

Source: OpticsInfoBase.org

Lost Ecosystem

Hawaiian Coral Reef Under Siege

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n the tropical paradise of Hawaiian waters, a milky growth has been spreading rapidly across the coral reefs along Kauai’s north shore. Marine biologist Terry Lilley, the foremost expert on the outbreak, says it now affects up to 40 percent of the coral in Anini Bay, and conditions in nearby areas are as bad or worse.

The growth, identified by U.S. Geological Survey scientists as both a bacteria that grows through photosynthesis and a fungus, is killing all the coral it strikes and is spreading its infection at the rate of one to three inches a week. “This bacteria has been killing some of these 50-to-100-year-old corals in less than eight weeks,” Lilley told the Los Angeles Times, noting that the entire reef system appears to be losing its immune system.

Some feel the cause is high levels of fecal and related bacteria from the town of Hanalei, which has no sewer system and where homes are connected to cesspools and septic systems. Because no definitive link has been shown, government action has been limited.

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Moon Fuel Two New Sources of Sustainable Energy

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new compound of lead telluride—a semiconductor first used in the Apollo moon landings to provide astronauts with a renewable, thermoelectric power source—can transform the heat emitted from car tailpipes and the chimneys of power stations and factories into a power source. According to the scientists engineering the innovation at Northwestern University, in Evanston, Illinois, as much as 15 to 20 percent of the heat currently being lost could be recovered as electricity.

Another team of researchers at Utah State University, in Logan, has created a yeast biodiesel fuel that can be made using the watery waste from the mass production of cheese. One cheese plant’s daily byproduct of up to 1 million gallons of liquid cheese waste can produce 66,000 gallons of fuel.

Thanks, Dad

Norway Recognizes Fatherhood

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orway’s liberal paternity leave policy places equal responsibilities on men and women, which in turn progressively redefines traditional gender roles. Pappapermisjon, or paternity leave, is often combined with a mother’s maternity leave to provide seamless childcare at home without overtaxing parents’ work life. The Norwegian government has socially engineered a society in which men and women are expected to have equal domestic and economic responsibilities.

Some specifics of the country’s “fathers’ rights” philosophy include leaving the workplace by 5:30 p.m.; being able to adjust office hours around daycare drop-offs and pickups; and allowing time to organize family dinners and help with housework.

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

communityspotlight

Finding Balance for Total Wellness

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by Robin Fillmore

he Yoga Fusion Studio has a deep tradition of providing sanctuary and wellness to Bethesda/Chevy Chase, offering yoga and pilates classes, as well as unique services and workshops. Celebrating its Third anniversary this month, the studio was founded

by Laura Urgelles, former principal dancer with the Washington Ballet and three-time Kona Triathlon finisher, Bill Beyer.

During the time she was with the Washington Ballet, Urgelles would run across the street from the company’s rehearsal studio each evening, despite the eight hours of dancing she had just completed. “I would be exhausted afterwards but the morning ballet classes were so much easier.” Urgelles soon completed a yoga teacher training and began teaching whenever she was not dancing full time. Drawn to the vinyasa yoga style with its fluidity and breath-guided movements, Urgelles found that yoga was helping her ballet career.

Beyer was an avid triathlete who had completed seven Ironman by the

time he and Urgelles met in 2006. He also practiced yoga as cross-training both on and off triathlon season and supported Urgelles when she decided to retire from her 20-year career in dance and take up the practice of yoga full time.

The decision to open the Yoga Fusion Studio was serendipitous. The space had been the home to the area’s first ballet school and it was the same studio in which Urgelles obtained her yoga teacher certification. Their vision was to carry on the work of the previous owners who had been her teachers—to foster a place in which students felt safe and cared for, while growing a yoga practice that cultivated strong bodies and calmness of mind and spirit. They also brought more variety by offering classes in meditation, zumba and aerial yoga and wellness services such as massage therapy and bodywork like Reiki, craniosacral therapy, myofascial release and zero balancing.

In addition to the 19 regular teach-

ers, some of whom are also former dancers, the Yoga Fusion Studio is fortunate to periodically welcome renowned teachers like Max Strom, Sage Rountree and Lauren Peterson as guests. Both heated and unheated yoga classes are offered for all levels of experience and include gentle and prenatal yoga. The studio’s diverse workshops and in-depth trainings complement full class offerings throughout the year. As a way to engage and give back to the community, the studio offers a weekly yoga community class and a bi-weekly meditation class, as well as fundraising events for various organizations including Avon Walk and Autism Speaks.

Together with their team of teachers and practitioners, The Yoga Fusion Studio offers an oasis of calm and wellness in the heart of Bethesda and Chevy Chase. Urgelles and Beyer explained, “We believe that our members have created a community that supports each other. Our space offers a service to the stay at home mom, to the working mom, to the busy business person, and to the lifelong yogi. That service is the best we can provide in support, love and energy. Here you will find a welcoming environment that offers something for everyone. Our students draw calmness, well-being, confidence and inspiration from the extraordinary benefits of their practice and the services they receive.”

The Yoga Fusion Studio is located at 4609 Willow Lane, Bethesda. For more info, visit TheYogaFusionStudio.com. See ad, page 14.

natural awakenings

June 2013

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therapyspotlight

The Silent Killer: Depression in Men

by Adam Miramon

F

or over a decade, suicide has been a leading cause of death in men, and in 2012, WebMD classified suicide as one of the top five preventable diseases men face. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that men are four times more likely than women to successfully commit suicide.

Suicide is considered a result of untreated depression. The CDC estimates that 20.9 million people suffer from some form of mood disorder, including depression, during any given year. Men account for over 29 percent of this number for a total of more than 6 million. Depression is commonly viewed as a silent killer, because many who suffer may go undiagnosed or may not seek help.

This fact is even more critical for men because the signs and symptoms may go unnoticed or men may not seek assistance.

One reason men fail to seek help is grounded in our American view of masculinity. In American culture, men are expected to be strong, successful, keep their emotions in check, and always maintain control. Depression tends to negatively affect a man’s perception of himself and the world around him. Another reason for men neglect seeking medical help

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NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

is that there is this pervasive image of depression as a woman’s disease.

As with any disease, depression does not discriminate against gender, race, age, religion, culture, etc. Anyone is susceptible to the effects of depression—even men.

The first step in overcoming depression is to recognize the signs.

Since depression manifests differently for men than it does for women, men should watch for symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea, and chronic back aches. Irritability, anger, hostility, difficulty focusing and anxiety are also common symptoms of depression in men, as well as substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, inability to make decisions and suicidal tendencies or ideation.

The second step in overcoming depression is to set aside one’s pride.

The mainstream culture insinuates men are not supposed to show signs of weakness. However, true strength is when one identifies and accepts they may have a health condition that requires medical intervention. The final step is to seek medical assistance.

There are a variety of treatments available for depression and its associated conditions. Treatment options include therapy, support groups, medication, and acupuncture. Lifestyle changes

can have a great impact on a person’s sense of well-being. Speak with your medical professional to evaluate what type of treatment is best for you.

With suicide being one of the leading causes of death among men, we can no longer afford to blindly ignore the signs and symptoms of depression.

Suicide is preventable, and depression is treatable. The day has come for men to notice the warning signs, and take active steps in seeking the medical help they require to conquer their depression. It takes great courage to recognize one’s weakness and even greater courage to seek the assistance in overcoming that weakness.

Adam Miramon, LAc, MAc, Dipl.

Ac., is a licensed acupuncturist with offices in Washington, DC and Maryland. Miramon treats a variety of conditions in his acupuncture practice including anxiety and depression. For more information, call 202-630-2435 or visit IxChelWellness.com.

Sources: WebMD.com, Autonomic Neuroscience, HealthMagazine.com, HelpGuide.org and National Institute of Mental Health Reports.

ecotip Clean Ride

DIY Versus Commercial Carwash

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e all want our new, energy-efficient vehicles to look their best, and eco-conscious drivers want to extend their green lifestyle to include cleaning their car. Washing can provide some exercise and saves money, but the International Carwash Association reports that automatic car washes use on average fewer than 45 gallons of water per car, compared with 80 or more at home. Commercial facilities also drain wastewater into sewer systems to be treated or reused, while soapy do-it-yourself water can directly enter waterways via storm drains unless it’s in an area that filters into a local aquifer.

Here are some helpful tips.

Conserve water. For DIY folks, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends using a bucket instead of a hose for washing a section at a time, and then quickly rinsing using a pistol-grip hose nozzle, and also washing the car on gravel or a lawn, so wastewater doesn’t flow off pavement or sidewalks and down a storm drain. Be sure to use phosphate-free, non-toxic biodegradable soaps and waxes.

Check under the car. Grime, dirt and salt may have accumulated in crevices of the undercarriage, especially in colder regions, so spray underneath, too.

Be observant. A fender-bender, stray pebbles or the impact of another car door may have chipped exterior paint. According to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, corrosion, acid rain, storm damage and harsh sunlight can also mar body paint and expose metal surfaces. Treat these blemishes with a stop-rust spray and touch-up paint before they spread.

Sources: epa.gov, ASE.com, CarWash.org, ehow.com

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June 2013

15

wisewords

ficiently successful at it, or their family discouraged it.

Reframing Personal Priorities Craig Hamilton Explores the Gender Gap in Spiritual Growth

by Kim Childs

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raig Hamilton is a writer, radio host and workshop leader devoted to helping people evolve their consciousness for the greater good. The former managing editor of What is Enlightenment? magazine, Hamilton went on to found Integral Enlightenment, an online education program for those on a contemporary spiritual path. Since then, thousands of people have participated in his courses and workshops, and the vast majority have been women.

Natural Awakenings asked Hamilton for his insights on this trend.

What’s behind the gender imbalance in personal growth and enlightenment circles?

Two years ago, I hosted a summit called The Way of the Evolutionary Man that included a discussion about why more men aren’t drawn to participate in these kinds of things. One of the main points made was that, while many Americans have focused on creating equality for women in the last 50 years, there hasn’t been a comparable men’s liberation movement.

I know that some would say, “Why do we need that? Men are already the ones with the most power, freedom and privilege.” Yet it became clear during our discussion that men do not have freedom when it comes to choosing among valued social roles.

For example, a woman can feel valued whether she pursues a 16

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professional career or something else that we might call a path of the heart, such as following artistic passions, working for a nonprofit or serving as a teacher. But if men do such things, they risk losing value among women.

Traditionally, women have wanted to be with men that are more economically successful than they are. If a man decides he wants to be an artist or a spiritual practitioner or follow what we might label a higher calling, he’s stepping out of traditionally validated activities for men.

So the reason that more men aren’t putting more time into their personal growth could be that they’re not being valued for that.

What might it take to shift this phenomenon?

If women want men to join them on paths of personal and spiritual growth, they might need to start in analyzing the part of themselves that says, “I want a man who makes more money than me, is successful and able to be the family provider.” Many women want their men to be conscious, sensitive, reflective and capable of profound intimacy, plus be a good provider.

I’ve heard from some men that feel seriously pained about this. A few said that they always wanted to be, for example, a musician or a teacher, but they couldn’t see themselves being suf-

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Is pursuing personal growth at odds with being a breadwinner?

I teach a spiritual path that anyone can pursue in the midst of their busy life. It involves turning everything into a spiritual practice. It means observing your own motivations and distortions and experiencing a different relationship to life that’s no longer rooted in patterns of the past and the ego.

I believe this work appeals to men because, while there is a meditative and interior dimension to it, the bigger part is calling people to step up in life and remove the obstacles inside themselves that keep them from playing their biggest game. Spiritual life isn’t about getting beyond this world; it’s about the evolution of our world through conscious participation. That’s something men and women alike can become inspired by and put their energy behind.

How can men be most effective in a changing world?

In order to be truly effective, each person needs to do the necessary inner work. It’s not enough to focus on trying to do and accomplish and acquire without clarifying what’s getting in the way of your full self-expression and creative engagement.

It’s easy to think about life in terms of our history, identity, desires and concerns, but that’s just a small part of who we are. At our deepest level, we are this unfolding evolutionary process that’s been going on for more than 13 billion years. Now we have the ability to participate in the greatest adventure of all, that of conscious evolution, growing into a future aligned with our highest ideals, visions and aspirations. While that is mobilizing generations of women, I am finding that it also speaks to the highest aspirations of men.

Connect with Craig Hamilton at IntegralEnlightenment.com.

Kim Childs is a writer and creativity coach in Boston. Visit KimChilds.com.

greenliving

Simple steps to green livinG

by Bart Smith

Most people do not recognize the importance of green living or understand that it is just as easy to be green as it is to use harmful lawn and garden chemicals.

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he Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates, the average American home has as much as 100 pounds of hazardous materials in it, and that we, as a nation, generate as much as 1.6 million tons of household hazardous waste each year.

Though it is difficult to state the number with certainty, the amount of chemicals disposed world-wide, into streams and on the ground, is estimated to be more than 4 billion. Yet the impact of these chemicals is clear. Not only are the harmful pollutants causing severe ecological destruction: they also cause accidental poisonings in children and adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that each day in 2012, more than 300 children and young adults are treated for accidental

poisoning, including cleaning products, and of that group, two died.

The University of Sheffield, known as Social and Spatial Inequalities (SASI), presents date to suggest that the rate of accidental poisonings worldwide is rising sharply, with an increase of 0.6 percent each year.

The effects of chemicals on the world’s fragile ecosystem have been well documented by science, weather and common sense and are irreparable. The world’s rainforests are disappearing at alarming rates due to tree cutting and mining of fossil fuels. The whole world is dependent on the survival of these forests, as there is documented proof that they help control seasonal change in a way similar to the world’s oceans. Polar melt-

US JOIN IS TH FOR

FREE !

T EVEN

ing leads to cooler water, which in turn directly effects seasonal change, as well as storms and droughts.

There are some simple changes that can be made in your everyday living that will make a huge difference. For instance, using chemical free lawn care products, such as those manufactured locally at Smith Environmental Group, can eliminate chemical pesticides that normally go into the ground and leak into drinking water.

Another change that can make a big difference to reduce your water usage is to attach a rain collector to your gutter downspouts. For a low cost project, you can purchase a 50-gallon recycled plastic barrel and a simple flex hose to attach to your gutter, instead of an aluminum downspout, which will then serve as a reservoir for your lawn and garden watering needs.

To keep it mosquito free, just sprinkle the water with a little baking soda.

Don’t forget to reduce your carbon footprint. By biking to work or riding the Metro, each of us can reduce the amount of gasoline used, while cutting down on exhaust emissions and saving money on fuel, parking and automobile maintenance. It also dramatically improves your health and longevity.

For more information on green products and other ways to follow a green lifestyle, visit SmithEnvGroup.webs.com.

Bart Smith is the founder of Smith Environmental Group. See ad, page 13.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 2013 10 am ~ 3 pm Reston Town Center Pavilion

Yoga & Wellness classes all day!

Kids Yoga Tent!

Lots of give aways!

Meet Northern Virginia’s finest Yoga studios and Wellness Centers!

Please visit www.BelovedYoga.com to view the schedule for the day.

Proceeds donated to Reston Interfaith.

natural awakenings

June 2013

17

LIFE LIFT Being Happy from the Inside Out

by Judith Fertig

An age-old question rides a new wave of bestseller lists, university research and governmental soul-searching. The answers to “What are the secrets of a happy life?” might surprise us.

H

“

appiness is the only true measure of personal success,” advises Geoffrey James, of Hollis, New Hampshire, author of How to Say It: Business to Business Selling. His work confirms that the rollercoaster world of business does not always promote a sense of well-being. James believes, “The big enemy of happiness is worry, which comes from focusing on events that are outside your control.” For him, something as simple as a good night’s sleep contributes to personal happiness.

Each of us has certain things that help make us feel positive, and they often come in small moments, advises Ed Diener, Ph.D., a psychology professor at the University of Illinois and author of Happiness: Unlocking the Mysteries of Psychological Wealth. Based on 25 years of research into the subject, he’s a recognized expert in what he calls “subjective well-being.”

In a recent six-part BBC series on happiness, Diener told viewers, “It may sound silly, but we ask people, ‘How

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happy are you, on a scale of one to 10?’

The interesting thing is that it produces real answers that are valid—not perfect, but valid—and they predict all sorts of real things in their lives.”

Getting to Happy The moment-to-moment path to happiness follows a trail blazed by paradox. A recent University of Missouri College of Business study by Marsha Richins, Ph.D., suggests that happiness is in the wanting, not the getting.

As noted Positive Psychologist Martin Seligman, Ph.D., remarks, “Focusing solely on happiness as a foundation of a good life,” won’t get you there.

Gretchen Rubin, the New York City-based author of The Happiness Project and Happier at Home, further finds that, “Happiness doesn’t always make you feel happy.” Trying each day to be emotionally centered, affable, kind, conscientious, generous, patient, principled, accomplished, spiritual and true to yourself—the kind of person that

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

should be happy and that makes other people happy—can be tough.

Widespread economic and associated financial challenges have made many question whether money can buy happiness, a common core assumption of the “happiness starts on the outside” approach. Apparently, money can sometimes buy feelings of well-being, but only to a certain degree, according to researchers Angus Deaton and Daniel Kahneman, at Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public & International Affairs.

In 2010, they surveyed 450,000 randomly chosen residents across the country via daily questionnaires. The study revealed that, “Low income exacerbates the emotional pain associated with such misfortunes as divorce, ill health and being alone.” Yet they also discovered that, “High income buys life satisfaction, but not happiness,” and there is no further progress in happiness beyond an annual income of $75,000 (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences).

On the other side of the world, in the tiny Himalayan country of Bhutan, where 70 percent of its 717,000 citizens are subsistence farmers and an annual income of $75,000 would be considered a fortune, people say they are generally happy, partly due to the nation’s “happiness starts on the inside” philosophy.

Since 1971, Bhutan has been operating based on a gross domestic happiness (GDH) value system. Bhutanese Prime Minister Jigmi Y. Thinley explains that the country has focused on growing both materially and spiritually, and citizen well-being has taken precedence over economic growth.

For decades, this was deemed an oddity by many in the West, although now it appears prescient. “It’s easy to mine the land and fish the seas and get rich,” says Thakur Singh Powdyel, Bhutan’s minister of education. “Yet we believe you cannot have a prosperous nation in the long run that does not conserve its natural environment or take care of the well-being of its people, which is being borne out by what is happening to the outside world.” The country measures its success in maintaining GDH by conducting regular surveys of the population. The reigning official definition of happiness involves

peace, contentment and living in harmony with all creation.

Seligman, author of Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-Being, has become a believer in GDH. “How can you measure well-being in a person, a family, a country or globally?” he queries. Research by Seligman and his colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, points to four basic elements: positive emotion, relationships, meaning in life and accomplishment, or PERMA. Seligman says there are proven ways to improve each element. For positive emotion, writing down three “blessings”, or things that went well that day, can increase our feelings of gratitude and well-being. For relationships, actively listening and being present for a loved one and having that attention returned can strengthen those bonds. Increasing meaning in our lives, says Seligman, can be a challenge for Westerners. “We have threadbare spiritual and relationship furniture. We have too much ‘I’ and not enough ‘we,’” he says. But getting involved in something that increases the “we” factor will help make us happier.

Nurturing Signature Strengths Self-surveys at AuthenticHappiness. com can help us identify our strengths and realize what we’re especially good at—and we increase our feelings of accomplishment by doing more of them. “You can even figure out how to do the task you like least by using your signature strength,” Seligman advises.

He shares an example of a grocery store cashier that disliked bagging groceries, but was exceptional at social interaction. She made herself happier

If I become happy and it makes you happy, it is like tipping the first domino so the next one falls and that happiness spreads. ~ James Fowler, economic behaviorist, University of California-San Diego by chatting with her customers while she packed their selections.

Lara Blair, a portrait photographer in Camas, Washington, believes in celebrating strengths. “If making things is what you love, give it the space in your brain, home and life that it deserves.”

Blair’s seminars and retreats help people tap ways to increase feelings of creativity, accomplishment and meaning. “If you nurture it and believe that growing this beautiful thing is worth the effort, the rewards will be more than you ever dreamed,” she says.

When, as a happily married lawyer with children, Rubin thought her life was missing something vital, she used her love for reading and writing to explore that wistful, “What if?” She started researching subjective happiness via Marcus Aurelius, Samuel Johnson, Benjamin Franklin and St. Thérèse de Lisieux, whom Rubin refers to as her “spiritual master.” She decided to test-drive her findings at Happiness-Project.com and began blogging about new ways of thinking and behaving that were bringing her and her readers greater self-realization and contentment.

“A great place to start is with your own body,” she counsels. “Are you

getting enough sleep? Are you getting good food to eat? When you take care of those very basic things, you feel energized, and then you can start moving to address other issues.”

Sustaining Happiness Once we’ve upped our happiness quotient, it can still be difficult to stay at that level, says Kennon Sheldon, professor of psychological sciences at the University of Missouri, in Columbia. In a recent study conducted with researchers at the University of California-Riverside, Sheldon and his colleagues found that by both recognizing that the desire for “more” and “better” in our lives won’t stop and also appreciating what we have, we’ll stay happy. It’s equally vital to continually keep things fresh, with positive new experiences at home, work, play and exercise, as well as in relationships. In other words, sustained happiness takes a little work.

“Just before going to bed,” suggests James, “write down at least one wonderful thing that happened that day. It may be anything from making a child laugh to a big sale. Whatever it is, be grateful for the present day, because it will never come again.”

The benefits of individual wellbeing radiate to those around us, notes Seligman. “When individuals are flourishing, they are more productive at work, physically healthier and at peace.”

He believes that as we find ways to increase positive emotion, relationships, meaning in life and individual accomplishment, it’s possible for life on Earth to flourish.

Judith Fertig is a regular contributor to Natural Awakenings.

We asked our friends what makes them happy? These are some of their answers.

Jessica - Anything that is beautiful

Sydney – Sunshine

Eduoardo – Bicycles

Ryan – Trees

Chelsea – Friends and music

Emily – Spring time

Barbara – To wake up each

morning and know

that I am fully alive

Emily – Fresh air Parker – my doggy (and candy)

natural awakenings

June 2013

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DC Medical Cannabis Update

by Mikhail Kogan, M.D.

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n 2010, the District of Columbia became one of 18 states to legalize the use of marijuana (cannabis).

Although Amendment Act B18-622 was passed with a 13—0 vote, qualified DC residents were unable to obtain medical marijuana until April 2013, when Capital City Care became the first licensed DC medical cannabis distribution center. It is now anticipated that several other distribution centers will soon be licensed to sell two main strains of cannabis—C. Sativa and C. Indica.

Medical Properties of C. Sativa and C. Indica While both plants are used medically, they vary in their relative ratios of two main active ingredients—tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the most psychoactive of the two and the recreational strains are selected for high THC content. The medical uses of THC and CBD differ as well. THC is selected more for its antiemetic (anti-nausea and vomiting), analgesic (relief from pain), and appetite stimulation properties, while CBD, with no psychoactive effects, is thought to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety and anti-panic), anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even anti-cancer properties, though unproven to date. Some experts, including one of the world’s best known integrative oncologists, Dr. Donald Abrams from University of California San Francisco (UCSF), believe that “cannabidiol should be studied for potential anti-cancer properties.

Medical Research Results Since the early 2000s, a number of small, but well made, randomized 20

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trials on the use of medical cannabis for chronic neuropathic pain have been published—several in high quality journals such as Neurology. One of the largest research institutions presently studying medical marijuana is the University of California Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR).

CMCR conducted two trials, which both showed consistently positive results— cannabis significantly reduced pain intensity by about 40 percent compared to 20 percent on placebo. Moreover a significantly greater proportion of individuals reported at least 30 percent, which is relevant since 30 percent decrease in pain intensity is generally associated with reports of improved life quality.

to severe weight loss (cachexia), and chronic cancer or HIV related nausea or vomiting. These are the indications covered under DC medical cannabis law. Additionally, other conditions that are chronic, long-lasting, debilitating, or that interfere with the basic functions of life may also be covered under DC medical cannabis law and benefit patients undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Other medical conditions where cannabis can potentially be helpful, but not yet proven, are Alzheimer’s dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder, seizures, stroke recovery, fibromyalgia, Myasthenia Gravis, Parkinson’s disease, ulcerative colitis, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, urine incontinence, chronic pruritis (itching), sleep apnea, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and others. It also appears that medical cannabis may be one of the best palliative care prescriptions for a variety of conditions—nausea, pain, lack of appetite and depression—which patients often face in end of life.

Proven Side Effects

Medical Conditions that Benefit from Cannabis There are at least 20 different medical conditions where cannabis may have a beneficial role. Those supported by positive clinical trials are: neuropathic pain (in patients with cancer or HIV), glaucoma, spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis, AIDS relative

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

No intervention is free of side effects and cannabis is not an exception. The proven side effects of cannabis are increased risk of car accidents if driving under influence, chronic cough, increased risk of psychosis and early onset schizophrenia as well as impaired short-term memory. Surprisingly, the expected risk of lung cancer has not been proven, unless cannabis was mixed with tobacco in chronic users. It is believed that while cannabis carries the same carcinogenic substances similar to tobacco, there are several active

ingredients that have cancer protective activity, which may explain lack of increased risk of lung cancer even with long-term daily use.

To Smoke or Not to Smoke While clinical data comes from a variety of sources such as oil solutions, vaporized products, sublingual drops, and others, smoking appears to be the cheapest, easiest, and fast acting form for consuming cannabis. The projected DC cost of one ounce of dried cannabis is $100-$120, which is similar to the street value. Medical insurance coverage is not expected.

DC Department of Health Criteria To qualify for a patient registration identification card, an applicant shall be a bona fide resident of the District of Columbia at the time of application and remain during a treatment with medical marijuana; have a “qualifying medical condition” or be undergoing a “qualifying medical treatment”; have a signed, written physician’s recommendation for the use of medical marijuana meeting the regulatory requirements and if the qualifying patient is a minor, a signed written consent of his or her parent or legal guardian is required. The maximum monthly allowed dose is two ounces of dry cannabis. Although this dosage may not be enough for some patients, who need to use cannabis multiple times per day, there is nothing in the law that would allow patients to legally obtain a higher amount. In contrast to many states, DC does not allow qualified residents to grow their own cannabis plants at home, which would have decreased the cost dramatically.

Within the medical community the acceptance of a medical use for cannabis has been slow. It has gone from disbelief and skepticism regarding the misperception that marijuana was a gateway drug, which led to the use of heavier illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin—to curiosity and acceptance of a need to look into sound medical cannabis research. While ongoing research efforts will be met with anticipated difficulties, it is clear that medical use of cannabis will continue to grow leading to a larger body of clinical knowledge resulting in wider acceptance and clearer clinical indications. While we do expect pharmaceutical industry attempt to utilize purified active ingredients as drugs it is unlikely that this will substitute for the use of the full plant.

For more information about the DC medical cannabis program, visit DOH.DC.gov/service/medical-marijuanaprogram or visit CapitalCityCare.com.

Mikhail Kogan, M.D. is assistant professor of medicine at George Washington University and medical director of the GW Center for Integrative Medicine where he sees patients for integrative medicine consultations and primary care visits. For more information, call 202-833-5055 or visit GWCIM.com. See ad, page 2.

YMCA Swim Programs Keep Youth Active and Teach Safety

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ummertime means pool time for many, and as families venture to their favorite spots to swim, play and create lasting memories, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington reminds swimmers to practice safety when in or around the water.

In your community, there are a variety of swim programs that teach water safety skills and give children and adults the chance to explore the many health benefits of swimming. “Swimming is a fun and enjoyable activity for children and adults alike, and it’s an easy way to stay physically active and improve strength, flexibility and stamina,” says Jackie Dilworth, director of communications for YMCA of Metropolitan Washington. “It’s never too late for children and adults to learn how to swim. Basic swimming skills and water safety practices save lives every day.”

The YMCA recommends children and adults practice safety tips such as teaching children water safety and swimming skills as early as possible, discouraging breath holding activities, and only swimming when and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never swim alone. When in and around water, appoint a “designated watcher” to monitor children during social gatherings at or near pools and always keep a first aid kit at poolside. It is also helpful to post CPR instructions and learn the procedures.

Parents or guardians of young children should be within arm’s reach and never allow children to visit the pool without an adult. Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, however, floatation devices should not be used as as a substitution for supervision.

Maintain constant visual contact with children in a pool or pool area. If a child is missing, check the pool first; seconds count in preventing death or disability.

In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, swimmers can enjoy water sports, enhance or learn new techniques, meet new friends, and develop confidence and a positive mental attitude. Swimming is also a great way to help more children be physically active. Only 19 percent of U.S. children get 60 minutes of physical activity a day, according to the latest findings of the YMCA’s Family Health Snapshot.

As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington has been a leader in providing swim lessons and water safety for more than 160 years. There are a variety of programs to choose, including family swim, swim leagues, parent-child lessons, aqua fitness and more. To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, financial assistance is available to those in need to help cover the costs.

To learn more about swim programs available in your community, call 202-232-6700 or visit YMCADC.org. natural awakenings

June 2013

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Mindfulness Program Launches for DC Area Schools

by Jesse Torrance

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magine a world where we educate our children to strive for both excellence and balance in their lives; to cope with the ups and downs of life with equanimity and determination; and to act with authenticity, wisdom and compassion. Imagine if we could do all this while alleviating, instead of adding to, their stress and ours.

This is the vision that inspires Mindfulness in DC Area Schools (MINDS), a new communitybased organization. The organization has over 120 volunteers and several dozen mindfulness trainers from across the DC area, all whom share a commitment to bringing secular practices of mindfulness, which simply means paying attention to the present moment, to K-12 classrooms in the greater Washington area.

The MINDS volunteers began meeting last year and gained momentum with funding from a few local foundations, such as Inward Bound Mindfulness Education (iBme)— a Virginia-based nonprofit that offers mindfulness retreats for teens, and support from the DC area mindfulness community. Jesse Torrence, former Executive Director of iBme became MINDS’ director in late 2012 and works closely with MINDS’ manager, Glen Harrison. Torrence explains, “Through seven volunteer teams, MINDS provides a channel through which ordinary citizens who share a passion for mindfulness can contribute their unique skills and life experiences to something bigger than themselves.” He continued, “People can join a team, get trained, and take action with

however much time they have to give, all while being in a community of other mindfulness practitioners. If they already have a lot of experience, they might even join our teaching team.”

The program inspires children to achieve better performance and deeper connection with themselves, each other, and their environment. MINDS has delivered programming in local schools including Whitman High School, Bullis, Washington Epispocal and Brooksfield Montessori. The organization has received interest from schools as wide spread as Anacostia High School and Ellicott Mills Middle School. Beginning this summer, MINDS will lead a workshop for the Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals.

Torrence concludes, “MINDS wants to provide well-trained, vetted mindfulness facilitators to schools that want to introduce these concepts to their student body and school culture.

There’s no magic solution for the problems of our society, but if we can give kids tools at a young age to help them understand how their minds work, then they may be less reactive and more responsive. They may take wiser actions, and ultimately lead happier, more fulfilling lives, even if the outer circumstances of their lives are not always easy. This would be one small step in the right direction.”

To learn more or contribute to MINDS, or to refer a school of interest, contact Jesse@ibme.info and Glen@ibme.info.

Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship. ~Buddha

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June 2013

23

Grow, Pick, Grill Making the Most of Summer’s Bounty

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by Claire O’Neil

n outdoor spaces from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to Arch Cape, Ore g o n , p r o d u c e i s g r ow i n g a n d grill embers are glowing. Growing a garden and grilling its bounty have never been more popular.

For the first time since 1944, when 20 million “Victory” gardeners produced 44 percent of the fresh vegetables in the United States, food gardening is outdistancing flower gardening.

In its latest survey of garden retailers, the National Gardening Association found that consumers’ spending for growing their own food hit $2.7 billion, versus $2.1 billion for flowers.

Barbecuing grill chefs are expanding their repertoire beyond grass-fed burgers and steaks. More vegetables and fruit are being grilled now than in the past, according to the latest annual survey by leading grill manufacturer Weber.

This all makes sense to Karen Adler and Judith Fertig, co-authors of The Gardener & the Grill. They’ve observed that when the bounty of the garden meets the sizzle of the grill, delicious things happen. “Natural sugars in

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NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

vegetables and fruits caramelize,” says Adler. “Essential oils in fresh herbs become more aromatic. The colors of fruits and vegetables stay more vivid when grilled, rather than when cooked any other way.”

“Grilling gives even familiar foods an exciting new makeover,” notes Fertig. For example, by cutting a head of cabbage into quarters, brushing each cut side with olive oil and then grilling and chopping, the backyard chef infuses a grill flavor into a favorite coleslaw.

Flatbreads, patted out from prepared whole-grain or gluten-free pizza dough, can be brushed with olive oil, grilled on both sides and then topped with flavorful garden goodies. Simple fruits like peaches and plums—simply sliced in half, pitted and grilled—yield fresh taste sensations, especially cradling a scoop of frozen yogurt.

A quick foray to the garden or farmers’ market can provide just the right colorful, flavorful edge to any summer barbecue.

Claire O’Neil is a freelance writer in Kansas City, MO.

Kale, Potato and Chorizo Pizza. photo by Steve Legato

consciouseating

Fresh on the Grill Hearty but not heavy, this pizza takes kale (or alternatively, Swiss chard or collard greens) and onions from the garden, and then adds vegetarian chorizo to accent.

on each sheet. Brush the potatoes with olive oil, place on the perforated grill rack and grill for 15 minutes, turning often, or until tender before topping the pizza.

Yields 4 servings

Brush the kale with olive oil. Grill leaves for 1 minute on each side or until slightly charred and softened.

Quickly trim off the bottom of the stalk and strip the leaves from the stems.

Finely chop the leaves and set aside.

1 pound fresh whole grain or gluten-free pizza dough ¼ cup whole grain or gluten-free flour for sprinkling 4 new potatoes, cooked and thinly sliced 8 kale leaves Olive oil, for brushing and drizzling Grapeseed oil for brushing the grill rack 8 oz cooked and crumbled vegetarian chorizo (Portuguese or other spicy sausage optional) ½ cup chopped green onion (white and light green parts) Coarse freshly ground black pepper Prepare a hot fire on one side of the grill for indirect cooking. Oil a perforated grill rack with grapeseed oil and place over direct heat.

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Sprinkle with whole grain or gluten-free flour and press or roll each piece into an 8-inch circle. Sprinkle flour of choice on two large baking sheets and place two rounds of dough

Brush one side of each pizza with olive oil and place, oiled side down, on the direct heat side of the grill grate.

Grill for 1 to 2 minutes or until the dough starts to bubble. Brush the top side with olive oil and flip each pizza round, using tongs, onto a baking sheet.

Quickly brush pizza rounds with additional olive oil, and then spoon on one-fourth of the sliced potato and grilled kale.

Sprinkle toppings of sausage and green onion. Drizzle a bit more overall olive oil and season with pepper.

Using a grill spatula, place each pizza on the indirect side of the fire.

Cover and grill for 4 to 5 minutes or until the kale has slightly wilted and the topping is hot. Serve hot.

photo by Steve Legato

Kale, Potato and Chorizo Pizza

Grilled Peaches with Lemon Balm Gremolata This recipe is simple, yet full of flavor.

A traditional gremolata condiment includes parsley, lemon zest and garlic, but this sweeter version finds deliciousness in fruit. Using a microplane grater culls the flavorful yellow part of the lemon rind without the bitter white pith.

Chopping the herbs with the lemon zest make the flavors blend together better.

Yields 4 servings ¼ cup packed lemon balm leaves or 1 Tbsp packed mint leaves ½ tsp lemon zest Pinch kosher or sea salt

Handy Garden-to-Grill Gadgets

n Long-handled grill tongs and a spatula help the cook handle foods on the grill like a pro. n Barbecue mitts protect hands and arms from the heat.

n A perforated grill rack, akin to a cookie sheet with holes, placed directly on the grill grates, keeps smaller vegetables and tender fish fillets from falling through.

n A grill wok is perfect for stir-grilling foods outdoors, a complement to indoor stir-frying.

n A sturdy, stiff, grill brush makes short work of cleaning the grill grates after each use.

4 peaches, halved and pitted Prepare a medium-hot fire in the grill.

Chop the lemon balm or mint and lemon zest together until very fine. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the leaves and chop again. Set aside in a small bowl.

Place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill 4 to 6 minutes, turning once, until they are tender and slightly blistered.

To serve, place two peach halves in each guest’s bowl and sprinkle the lemon balm gremolata over all of them.

Source: Recipes adapted from The Gardener & the Grill. natural awakenings

June 2013

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Summer Skin

by JoElle Lee

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ts summertime! And while you enjoy spending days outside, you must remember to block the harmful elements of this warm season. Hot weather, salt water, humidity, and chlorine take their toll on your skin during the summer months and excessive sun exposure can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to premature aging conditions like wrinkles, age spots and very dry skin. Did you know that most skin aging occurs during the summer months?

So consistent application of sun protection, regular professional facials, and a good home skin care regimen are your best defenses against fun in the sun.

Make sure you start your summer with a new bottle of sunscreen. Sunscreens are not meant to last forever, so ditch the sunscreens you have stored away and opt for a new bottle. The sunscreen should be water resistant and have a SPF of 15 or higher. Make sure to apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before you go out and if you swim, sweat, or are outdoors for a long period time, reapply every two hours. Try JoElle SkinCare SPF 30 Ultra Sheer Moisturizer for sun protection and that ultimate oil free matte look even under your makeup.

This is also the best season to load up on antioxidants. When antioxidants are used topically in skin care and taken internally by eating spinach, tomatoes, berries and sweet potatoes, they can provide your skin and body with the defense it needs to fight off damaging free radicals. These damaging free radicals which increase aging come through sunlight and penetrate through your skin even while wearing sunscreen. Vitamin C is excellent in combating aging and providing antioxidant protection. Try JoElle SkinCare Vitamin C + Collagen Antioxidant Serum to prevent aging and to keep those damaging free radicals at bay.

Your body tends to lose a lot of moisture in the summer months, so it’s important to regularly replenish your body with lots of water and liquids to prevent skin dehydration and keep your skin soft and moisturized. Don’t forget to eat a balanced healthy diet, workout for at least 45 minutes a day and get your seven to eight hours of sleep. Enjoy your summer!

JoElle Lee is the founder and president of JoElle SkinCare, LLC, and provides natural skincare products and services. She is currently the personal esthetician to First Lady Michelle Obama and provides skincare services at Citrine Salon and Spa in Bethesda. See her listing on page 34.

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lifepotentialist.com/summer 202. 280. 3349 26

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Things are Growing at Common Good City Farm

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ommon Good City Farm, in the heart of LeDroit Park, is green with new shoots of asparagus and leafy lettuce. Sitting on a half acre amidst old row homes and a new playground, the residents of this diverse neighborhood have found the farm to be an oasis for fresh vegetables and herbs.

For the past five years, what used to be a baseball field has slowly been cultivated into rich soil to grow crops for community members. The goal of Common Good City Farm, according to farm manager Anita Adalja, is to grow and distribute food for low income families in the neighborhood. In exchange for their participation in the activities of the farm, residents are eligible to receive up to 10 pounds of produce per week. Saturday workshops on nutrition, food preservation, and herbs are offered as an educational component to the farm’s mission.

The farm is are able to sell 15 percent of what is grown to local restaurants and partner, Arcadia Center for Food and Sustainable Agriculture, which operates a mobile farmer’s market throughout the District. The farm has extensive programs for the neighborhood youth as well. The after-school Learning for Environment, Agriculture and Food or LEAF program, provides classes about food and cooking and offers space for the neighborhood youth to garden their own plots. Sixteen teens are also hired each summer to participate in an extensive summer job program to tend the garden and participate in workshops about money management, job training and empowerment.

For more information about CommonGood Farm, visit CommonGoodCityFarm.org.

bestpractices

Farm to Table for All: Arcadia’s Growing Vision for the DC Area

by Grace Ogden

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tall, jeans-clad woman in rubber boots works her hoe down a lumpy, earthen field on a rainy spring morning. “It’s the farmer’s day off,” explains Pam Hess, executive director of Arcadia, a nonprofit farm planted in the 19th-century kitchen garden of Woodlawn Estate in Alexandria, Va. Hess readied the soil for more vegetables that will grow to feed lowincome families and well-heeled foodies alike in the months to come. The vision of Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture is to “knit those communities together,” she says.

Meaning “harmonious wilderness,” the name Arcadia floated around in the mind of Alexandria-based, Neighborhood Restaurant Group founder Michael Babin as he researched how to source or grow food for his farm-to-table restaurants in Northern Virginia and DC. Having grown up in Baton Rouge with pigs and a vegetable garden out back, Babin’s early career as a lobbyist for community development clients expanded his natural interest in the public good alongside his concern for sustainable food systems.

His first restaurant, the Evening Star Café in Del Ray, helped turn his own neighborhood around and he and the staff intentionally engaged in issues that mattered to the community. They knew lack of access to fresh produce plagued people living in low-income neighborhoods. Years on, “an amazing piece of serendipity occurred,” Babin says, when a friend connected him to historic, nearby Woodlawn and they got the go-ahead to start Arcadia Farm there. Arcadia was the very name they saw on the old maps for this mid-Atlantic region.

Arcadia Farm is now two years old and Hess’s previous tenure as editor of Flavor magazine translates into a highly energetic and creative implementation of Babin’s vision. They are steadily

growing Arcadia into a food hub, helping to get healthier food to people rich and poor through a network of nearby farms that in turn can thrive on receiving fair prices from a steady customer base. A food hub is an industry term for a distribution point. It also accurately describes Arcadia in another way: a crossroads of practical, shared concern for healthy people and land, community and economy.

A tour of the garden reveals the soil is full of plans and preparation. Northeastern sugar pumpkins and butternut squash will grow in one section, varieties of heritage potatoes in another; the list of crops and herbs is long. A powerful and cutting-edge model of community transformation is growing there too.

The Mobile Market, a former school bus painted bright green and equipped with a refrigerator chest, rolls out from Arcadia to communities across Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. At distribution spots inside urban food deserts, seasonal produce, meats and dairy from Arcadia and other farm partners are offered for sale. Customers can make purchases with EBT cards supplied by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. In 2012, 40 percent of Arcadia’s mobile market sales were made with EBT cards. Donors, including the Paleo meal delivery provider Power Supply, contribute funding that matches $10 on each EBT card and creates buyingpower parity for the high quality food offered by the Mobile Market.

Children from throughout the surrounding area come to Arcadia Farm on field trips and for summer camp, where they help with the harvest and play games that “introduce kids to the magic of food and soil,” said Hess.

“Fresh is appealing,” she adds. Studies show children will choose the fresh apple they picked themselves over a prepackaged snack.

There are no chemicals used on the farm. Instead, Arcadia aims to operate a closed farm loop that captures all the fertility it produces with no input needed from outside. Arcadia’s hens roost and pasture in chicken tractors, movable units that house them on the insect-rich grasses, allowing their fertilizer to soak right back into the ground that feeds them.

First pick of Arcadia’s harvest goes to the Mobile Market and the surplus is available to the chefs at NHG. It also provides company staff with a built-in connection that transcends the day-today pressures of the restaurant business—the hard work, long hours and high stress. Knowing they are contributing to a visionary project for food equity, Babin explains, “helps make the daily hard work worth it.”

Part of making Arcadia come more fully alive is the participation of an evergrowing network of community participants, from connoisseurs to CrossFit practitioners, public schools to children’s aid groups. “The larger goal,” Hess says, “is to transform the local food system.”

With that, she returned to hoeing.

For more information about Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture, visit ArcadiaFood.org.

Grace Ogden is the founder of Grace Productions, a transformational events and consulting firm based in Washington, D.C. Contact her at 301-445-6771, GGOgden@gmail.com or Grace Productions.com. See ad, page 23. natural awakenings

June 2013

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calendarofevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NaturalAwakeningsDC.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 26 Interfaith Meditation Sessions – 11am-12:30pm.

Interfaith Meditation Initiative (IMI) is offering a series of interfaith meditation sessions in various locations throughout the Washington, DC, area this spring. The non-religious, public nonprofit brings together religious leaders in interfaith teams to share meditation with one another and public audiences in churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, universities and community centers. Co-led by 11 religious leaders from diverse faith backgrounds. Individuals of all faiths and backgrounds may participate. Our Lady Queen of Peace, 2700 S 19th St, Arlington.

Info: InterfaithGatherings.org.

Vital: The Power of Breath-Initiated Movement – 1-3:30pm. With Max Strom. Take a proactive approach to health and happiness, rather than a reactive approach. Breath-initiated movement as taught

by Max Strom can be the catalyst of an emotional logjam being swept away, allowing desperately needed change to occur spontaneously within you. $40/pre-registration, $45/at event. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Chevy Chase, MD. Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 31 Discovering the Peace Within, Part 1 – 7-9pm.

With Felix Lopez. A two-part immersion on mindfulness and meditation. Discover the relationship with minds, bodies, emotions, and how to be more present in everyday life. $25 suggested donation.

The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda. Register: TheMindfulnessCenter.org.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1 Redefining Health – June 1-2. 9am-5pm. Gain 20 practical and empowering skills you can use immediately to create more ease and less suffering. $165. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel. Register: BHandy@ Muih.edu or Muih.edu.

Blood Drive – 9:30am-2pm. The 2nd annual blood drive with the American Red Cross. All who sign up to donate will receive 1 free yoga class (to be used

by September 31, 2013). One lucky donor will win 1 free month of yoga. Raffle prizes provided by the American Red Cross. Appointments are available every 15 minutes with a break from 11:30am12:30pm. ExtendYoga, 12106 Wilkins Ave, Rockville. Register: 301-881-3330 or RedCrossBlood. org/Make-Donation/ExtendYoga.

Get Growing Workshop: How to Compost – 10am-12pm. Come to Arcadia to decompose your way through composting. The farm director will discuss the basics of successful backyard composting and talk about a variety of easy home-scale compost systems. $30. Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture, 9000 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria.

Register: Morgan@ArcadiaFood.org or EventBrite. com/Event/5725769932.

Fitness and Leading a Healthy Lifestyle – 10am12:30pm. The workshop will focus on nutrition and

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Arcadia Farm Camp Registration Closes – 11:55pm. At Arcadia Farm Camp, campers discover where their food comes from through hands-on farming, cooking, and eating experiences. Ages 6-12. Four week-long sessions in July. Regular hours are 9am-3pm. $300/week. Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture, 9000 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria. Register: ArcadiaFood.org/ Arcadia-Farm-Camp.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2 Designing an “At Home” Yoga Practice –12:452:45pm. Get practical guidance on postures & sequences to practice at home, but more importantly, how to benefit from a home practice. $45/person, $80/pair. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave NW, DC. Register: 240-491-6321 or Info@LilOmm.com.

The Lincoln Memorial fitness basics. Topics to be discussed: why people lose or gain weight, popular “fad” diets, and the importance of eating a varied diet made up of whole foods. The workshop will also feature functional fitness and cover body-weight based movements and several simple exercise routines. $15. Common Good City Farm, V Street, NW (between 2nd St and 4th St), DC. Register: CommonGoodCityFarm.org/Programs/GrowingGardens or Info@ CommonGoodCityFarm.org.

Circus Yoga – 10:30-11:30am. Blending yoga and circus, Jen Taylor will guide children (ages 3-7yrs) with an accompanying parent, through a magical experience of storytelling. $30. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW DC. Register: 240-491-6321 or Info@LilOmm.com.

Make Your Own Organic Herbal Body Care Products – 10:30-11:30am. For ages 10 & up (must be accompanied by an adult). Make own face scrub and shampoo, while pampering ourselves at the same time. It’s easy, inexpensive and fun. Bring an empty shampoo bottle that has been rinsed out and a towel. $35/TP Resident, $45 Non-TP Resident (includes supplies). Takoma Park Recreation Department. Register: 301-891-7290.

Discovering the Peace Within, Part 2- 12-2pm.

With Felix Lopez. See May 31 listing. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda.

Register: TheMindfulnessCenter.org.

Discovering the Peace Within – 4-5:30pm. With Felix Lopez. Join spiritual teacher and healer Felix Lopez to explore mindfulness meditation, a practice that can help you discover your natural state of calm. Included in the session will be periods of instruction, group discussion, and sitting meditation practice. This workshop is open to students of all levels. Those new to mindfulness and meditation in addition to experienced students will find benefit. Wear comfortable clothes. $25. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, NW, Ste 202 (2nd fl), DC. BuddhaBYoga.com.

Songs of the Soul – Concert for Inner Peace – 7pm. The powerful meditation music of Maestro Sri Chinmoy will be performed by musicians from around the world on a variety of exotic and traditional instruments. Greenberg Theatre, 4200 Wisconsin Ave NW. Admission free. Register: 202-452-5954 or SongsoftheSoul.com.

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Jivamukti Workshop: Inner Alchemy the Science of Transmuting Consciousness through Yoga – 2-4pm. With Jordanna Rock-Garden. Alchemy is the protoscience of antiquity that is associated with the goal of transmuting common metals into gold.

The practices of yoga, when applied in a scientific method, turn the mundane into gold by the means of cultivating cosmic Consciousness within ourselves. $30/pre-registration (by June 1st), $35/door. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, NW, Ste 202 (2nd fl), DC. Register: BuddhaBYoga.com.

Yoga for Cancer Patients, Survivors and Caregivers – 2-4pm. This workshop will provide an overview of potential side effects from cancer treatment, modifications and considerations for practicing yoga, and how yoga methods can unify mind/body/ spirit. During the workshop, explore ways yoga can help ease cancer treatment side effects, and help you and/or a loved one better cope. This workshop will be both discussion and an all-levels asana practice. $35. ExtendYoga, 12106 Wilkins Ave, Rockville.

Register: 301-881-3330 or Secure-Booker.com/ ExtendYoga/ShopOnline/Series.aspx.

Prenatal/Postnatal Yoga & Meet & Greet – 6:307:45pm. We invite pregnant women to an intro class dedicated to learning about the ways yoga can enhance your pregnancy and your new role as a mama. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC. Register: 240-491-6321 or Info@LilOmm.com.

MONDAY, JUNE 3 Learn to Meditate – 9am-5pm. Deepak Chopra, MD, and David Simon, MD, revived the ancient practice of sound meditation and made it easy to learn and easy to use. Instruction will be given by Chopra Center Certified Instructors Jennifer Closshey and Charleene Closshey. $345/ pre-registration by May 1, $395/at event. Hyatt Regency, Reston, VA. Register: 619-861-2237 or EnergyPsych.org.

An Evening with Sharon Salzberg –7-9pm.

Sharon Salzberg, one of America’s leading spiritual teachers and authors, will present a meditation class in Washington, DC, after her recent European tour. In 1976, Sharon co founded Insight Meditation Society (IMS) with Joseph Goldstein and Jack Kornfield. The ancient Buddhist practices of vipassana (mindfulness) and metta (lovingkindness) form the foundations of her work. Her class is open to the public without reservations and supported by participant donations. International Campaign for Tibet, 1825 Jefferson Pl, NW, DC. Info: SharonSalzberg.com.

TUESDAY, JUNE 4 Kids Summer Camp – June 4-July 25. 9-11:45am.

Sign up to attend eight weeks of Yoga Fusion kids summer camp. An invigorating, fun-filled, yogainfused summer camp for children ages 4-7. Each week, the children’s yoga practice will be centered around different themes, as well as other fun & engaging activities. $120/One week, $400/Four weeks. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Chevy Chase. Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

Infant Massage – 12-1:15pm. In this 3week series learn about reading your baby’s cues; tailoring massage to meet your baby’s unique needs; and laying the foundation for nurturing touch and communication. $125. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC. Register: LilOmm.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5 “One for the Bay” Networking Event – 5-7pm.

The Nature Conservancy and the Oyster Recovery Partnership are working on the largest oyster restoration project on the Chesapeake Bay. Come to learn more. McCormicks & Schmicks, 1652 K St, NW, DC. Info: Karion@TNC.org.

Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Career Panel – 7-8:30pm. Hear a panel of practicing acupuncturists describe their career paths, their practices, and how they work with a variety of healthcare providers and patients. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel. Info & Registration: BHandy@Muih.edu or Muih.edu.

THURSDAY, JUNE 6 Kick the Sugar Cravings: A Nutrition Seminar with Linda Petursdottir – 6:30-8:30pm. Join Linda Petursdottir for an eye-opening and inspiring seminar to help gain control without willpower and deprivation. $40. Hosted by The Mindfulness Center. Suburban Hospital, 8600 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda. Register: Sheincjn@gmail.com or TheMindfulnessCenter.org.

FRIDAY, JUNE 7 Celebrate Fairfax – June 7-9. The 25-acre site is filled with the sights and sounds of more than 300 exhibitors, vendors, crafters and interactive activities. Celebrate Fairfax showcases live concerts on eight stages, children’s avenue, a petting zoo, the Fairfax County karaoke championship, carnival rides, the Inova train ride to good health, great festival foods and nightly fireworks. This year’s main stage features top national performers: The B-52s, Spin Doctors and the Summerland Tour 2013 - Alternative Guitars starring Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge. Info: CelebrateFairfax.com.

Yoga Immersion Weekend – Kaivalya/Living in Freedom with Neva Ingalls. A weekend of healing and transformation while deepening your knowledge of yoga and your personal practice. Course eligible for CEU credits with Yoga Alliance and can be applied toward a 300- or 500-hr teacher training with Neva Ingalls and Inner Domain. $550 for the weekend or register for each date separately. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Bethesda.

Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8 This Present Moment, Saturday Series – 2-3:30pm. A four-week workshop with Bonnie Schmidt. Participants will explore the inner work-

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12

Union Station Bikes ings of anxiety and its effects on our mind and body by learning yoga poses and breathing techniques specially designed to alleviate stress and anxiety, as well as powerful mental practices to create a total transformation in the way you deal with anxiety.

Drop ins welcome. $100/4 classes or $35/drop in.

The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Bethesda.

Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9 Reiki 1 Training with Diane Armstrong – 8am5pm. This enjoyable one-day training gives you an understanding of Reiki and its benefits for you and those around you. No previous experience is necessary for Reiki I. $175. The Mindfulness Center, 4963 Elm St, Ste 100, Bethesda. Registration required: TheMindfulnessCenter.org.

Reiki I Class – 9am-6pm. Through this one-day class, anyone can learn Reiki, a gentle hands-on form of healing energy that brings us back into balance physically and emotionally. $175. New Leaf Acupuncture and Reiki. Info: 202-997-0925 or Got_Reiki@yahoo.com.

Interfaith Meditation Sessions – 10am-12pm.

Interfaith Meditation Initiative (IMI) offering a series of interfaith meditation sessions in various locations throughout the Washington, DC, area this spring. The non-religious, public nonprofit brings together religious leaders in interfaith teams to share meditation with one another and public audiences in churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, universities and community centers. Co-led by 11 religious leaders from diverse faith backgrounds; individuals of all faiths and backgrounds may participate.

Turner Memorial AME Church, 7201 Sixteenth Pl, Hyattsville. Info: InterfaithGatherings.org.

Love your Body Day – 10am-3pm. Yoga studios and wellness centers of Northern Virginia will offer classes, provide services, and share information at the free “Love Your Body – Northern Virginia Yoga and Wellness Day”. Free kid yoga demonstration at 10:40am. Reston Town Center, 11900 Market St, Reston. Register: BelovedYoga.com.

Fun & Family Yoga – 4-5pm. Bring family and friends and heat up the summer with an energetic yoga class. Ages 10 and up, no previous experience necessary. $15/person or $50/ family of 4 or more.

Unity Woods Yoga Center, 4001 N, 9th St, Ste 105, Arlington. Registration required: UnityWoods.com.

MONDAY, JUNE 10 Holistic Mothering Group – 2-3pm. Mothers, bring babies of all ages to connect with other mothers, ask questions of the IBCLC, and find support for breastfeeding related challenges. Hosted by Breastfeeding Mother’s Support Group. $10. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave NW, DC. Register: 240-491-6321 or Info@LilOmm.com.

Congressional Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Expo and Forum – 9:30am-4:30pm.

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Caucuses are bringing together nearly fifty businesses, sustainable energy industry trade associations, government agencies, and energy policy research organizations to showcase a crosssection of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Caucus Room of the Cannon House Office Building. Info: Ken Bossong, Sustainable Energy Coalition at KBossong614@yahoo.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14 Viking AcroYoga Tour – 7-9pm. AcroYoga blends the spiritual wisdom of yoga, the dynamic power of acrobatics, and the loving kindness of thai massage. These 3 ancient lineages form the foundation of a unique practice that cultivates trust, connection, and playfulness. On this Friday evening, join your community for an evening of partner work. You can come with a friend or by yourself and we will find you a partner. $25. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Bethesda.

Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 15 JuneFest 2013 to Promote Environmental Responsibility – 10am-8pm. A free music festival in Tenleytown with 6 local bands – from blues to rock. Hula hoops, kite flying and much more.

Reno Park, 3800 Donaldson Pl NW, DC. Info: SmithEnvGroup.webs.com.

Viking AcroYoga Tour with Josh Young – June 15-16, 10am-1pm, Sat; 3-5pm, Sun. See June 14 for details. Saturday Solar Phase: 10am-1pm, Sunday Lunar Phase: 3-5pm. $150/$130 by June 1st. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Bethesda.

Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

Yoga for Runners Workshop – 12-2:00pm. Sponsored by YoKid. $35 tax-deductible contribution.

Old Town Sport & Health, 209 Madison St, Alexandria. Info or Register: 717-503-2040 or Active.com/ Yoga-Clinic/Alexandria-Va/Yoga-For-Runners-WJen-Mueller-In-Support-Of-YoKidStretch-YourLimits-2013.

TUESDAY, JUNE 18 Book Signing: Botanical Safety Handbook – 7-9pm. With editors Michael McGuffin, American Herbal Products Association, and Zoe Gardner, Traditional Medicinals, along with Tieraona Low Dog, AHPA. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel. Info & Registration: BHandy@muih.edu or Muih.edu.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19 CorePower Yoga Teacher Training – June 19-August 11, 7:30-10:30pm Wed; 1:30-4:30, Sat & Sun. CorePower Yoga Teacher Training will train you to teach an accessible and challenging Power Yoga class. Step out of your comfort zone, discover your power and challenge yourself in ways you haven’t been before. $2750. CorePower Yoga, Bethesda & Georgetown Studios. Register: CorePowerYoga.com.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20 BuddhaFest – June 20-23. A festival for heart and mind with films, talks, meditation and music.

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Artisphere in Rosslyn, VA. Details & tickets: BuddhaFest.org.

of summer playing and having fun through free form art, singing, drumming, yoga, journaling, hula hooping, ecstatic dance Earth-based activities and more… while celebrating and honoring yourself at the same time? Themes covered in this camp are: self empowerment, self-esteem, body image, environmental awareness and self-expression. $185/TP Residents, $195/Non-TP Residents. Takoma Park Recreation Department. Register: 301-891-7290.

FRIDAY, JUNE 21 YoKid 20-hour Basic Training: Yoga Philosophy for Kids – 5-9pm Fri; 9am-5pm Sat & Sun. Learn fundamental yoga philosophy and how it pertains to children; learn ways to teach guided relaxation, breathing techniques, and meditation to schoolaged children (K-12th). Scholarships available. $95. Beloved Yoga, 12001 Sunrise Valley Dr, Gr Fl, Reston. Info & Register: Ellie@YoKid.org or YoKid.org/Teacher-Trainings/YoKid-Yoga-teacherCertification.

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 Herbs for Digestion & Fermentation Workshop – 9am-10pm. With Suzanna Stone of Owlcraft Healing Ways. This class is part of the Centro Ashé Grassroots Herbal and Holistic Wellness 8 Month program. The day will be open to additional attendees for this class only. This workshop includes herbs for digestion followed by a workshop on the art of fermentation. We will have a Summer Solstice Circle and bonfire with drum circle. Lunch and dinner are done as a potluck. Please bring a mug for tea, and if you have any instruments for the drum circle. $65.

Centro Ashe, 1620 Chester Ave, Bryans Road, MD. RSVP: Info@CentroAshe.org YoKid 20-hour Basic Training: Teaching Yoga to K-5th Graders – 9am-5pm. Learn traditional and non-traditional poses (partner poses, games, & activities), as well as appropriate language and methods for creating a fun and calming environment for elementary school children. $ 1 7 5 . B e l o v e d Yoga, 12001 Sunrise Valley Dr, Gr Fl, Reston. Info & Register: Ellie@YoKid.org YoKid.org/TeacherTrainings/YoKid-Yoga-Teacher-Certification.

Permaculture Workshop – 10:30am-12:30pm.

This workshop will teach practical skills for meeting our basic needs for survival, food, water, shelter and energy – locally. By acquiring an indigenous understanding of our immediate environment, we can redesign our life-style to grow our own food organically, harvest rain water while recharging the water table, retrofit our houses for passive heating and cooling, and recycle wastes as fertilizer. $15. Common Good City Farm, V St, NW (between 2nd St and 4th St), DC. Register: CommonGoodCityFarm.org or Info@CommonGoodCityFarm.org.

SUNDAY, JUNE 23 YoKid 20-hour Basic Training: Teaching Yoga to 6th-12th Graders – 9am-3pm. Learn developmental stages and teaching strategies as well as how to teach traditional yoga poses in order create

Interfaith Meditation Sessions – 7:30-8:30pm. See June 9 listing. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, DC. Info: InterfaithGatherings.org.

SUNDAY, JUNE 30 Washington Nationals Stadium a fun, challenging, and relaxing environment for teens. $175. Beloved Yoga, 12001 Sunrise Valley Dr, Gr Fl, Reston. Info & Register: Ellie@YoKid. org or YoKid.org/Teacher-Trainings/YoKid-YogaTeacher-Certification.

Rhythm of the Seasons Retreat – 10:30am2:30pm. Inspired by The Way of the Happy Woman.

Together we practice yoga, meditation, journaling, and discussion as we honor summer’s vibrancy.

Lunch included. $60. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC. Register: 240-491-6321 or Info@LilOmm.com.

Healthy Hips with Neva Ingalls – 2-5pm. Join Neva Ingalls into discovering practices to bring balance of flexibility and strength to the hips. In yoga and other healing systems, the pelvic area represents the water element and the subconscious.

Moving with awareness into the areas of tightness can facilitate a healing process and make available a resource of great power and creative potential.

The hips ground us, and we need to be grounded in order to fly. $38/pre-registration, $45/door. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, NW, Ste 202 (2nd fl), DC. BuddhaBYoga.com.

Full Moon Women’s Group – 7-9pm. Sankalpa/ Intention setting work that will culminate with a lantern festival celebration. Sankalpa is a thought in the mind, a seed, which you create. If you prepare your mind and then sow the seed, the idea, properly, then it will grow in your life and become willpower.

Uncover the thing that makes your heart sing, and how to refine this passion into a daily intention. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Chevy Chase.

Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

MONDAY, JUNE 24 Young Women in Bloom Camp – June 24-28. 9am4pm. Calling all teens and in-betweens (ages 11-15).

What could be more fun than spending the beginning

We Still On? Call ahead to confirm that the event details haven’t changed and tell them you saw it in Natural Awakenings of Washington, DC. 30

Washington, D.C.

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Birth Goddess: A 6-week Session – 10:30am-12:30pm.

Find your inner goddess through this unique 6-wk series that combines childbirth education with prenatal yoga.

Birth partners welcome weeks 3-6. $275. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC. Register: 240491-6321 or Info@LilOmm.com.

Baby Signs: Sign, Say, and Play Session – 6-week session 12:45-1:30pm. Baby Signs® Program teaches babies to use simple gestures for communicating.

Designed for parents of hearing children less than 2 yrs. $160. Lil Omm Yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC. Register: LilOmm.com.

savethedate Buddha B Yoga-200 Hour Teacher Training July Intensive with Valerie Grange – July131, Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. This 200-hour teacher certification program offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental elements that go into teaching basic and intermediate hatha yoga classes with an emphasis on Vinyasa yoga based on the Ashtanga system. Subjects that will be integrated into the training program include learning to teach, asana, pranayama, and meditation in theory and practice, and the physiological, psychological, emotional and spiritual aspects of a complete yoga practice. The Buddha B Yoga Center is a 200 Hour Registered School with the Yoga Alliance. Buddha B Yoga Center, 1115 U St, NW, Ste 202 (2nd fl), DC. Register: BuddhaBYoga.com.

plan ahead WEDNESDAY, July 10 Herb Walk – 7-9pm. Join experts from the Maryland University of Integrative Health for an informative tour of MUIH’s herb garden and property.

Learn to recognize herbs and how they are used for healing and wellness. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel.

Info: BHandy@muih.edu.

WEDNESDAY, July 17 MUIH Graduate Programs Open House – 7-9pm.

Explore Maryland University of Integrative Health’s academic offerings and learn how MUIH’s programs can advance a career or inspire a new path. Maryland University of Integrative Health, 7750 Montpelier Rd, Laurel. Info: BHandy@Muih.edu.

ongoingevents NOTE: All calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month and adhere to our guidelines. Review guidelines and submit entries online at NaturalAwakeningsDC.com. ery Tuesday and Thursday in Takoma Park. $10-15.

Capital City Cheesecake, 7071 Carroll Ave, Takoma Park, Md. Massage2Day.com.

Vipassana Meditation – 7:30-8:30pm. Guided Meditation in the Vipassana or Insight Meditation Tradition with Vicki Goodman. Emphasis will be on the development of concentration to quiet the mind and body. There will be an emphasis on bringing mindfulness and open heartedness to daily life situations. Time will be allowed at the end of the meditation for discussion.Class takes place every other Tuesday. $10 or give what you can. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Lane, Chevy Chase.

Info: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

wednesday Rock Creek Park

sunday Dupont Circle FreshFarm Market – 8:30am-1pm.

A producer-only farmers’ market. Only regional growers from the Chesapeake Bay watershed region (DE, MD, PA, VA and WV) may sell at market. 20th St, NW (between Massachusetts Ave & Hillyer Place NW) and the adjacent bank parking lot. More info: 202-362-8889.

Community Yoga Class – 11:30am-12:30pm.

Open Level Yoga Class hosted by a range of teachers, including recent graduates from our Yoga Teacher Trainings. This community yoga class will vary in style and flow. Please note the room will be heated at 90’ degrees to aid in the detoxification of the body. Please arrive early to guarantee your spot! $10 suggested donation. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Lane, Chevy Chase. Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

monday Baby and Me Postnatal Yoga – 11:30am12:15pm. Blue Heron Wellness, 10723-B Columbia Pike, Silver Spring. 301-754-3730.

BlueHeronWellness.com.

Family Yoga – 5-6pm. Family Yoga eases transitions, builds strength and creates connections. Blue Heron Wellness, 10723-B Columbia Pike, Silver Spring. 301-754-3730. BlueHeronWellness.com.

tuesday Chair Massage – 9am-2pm. Have a bit to eat and then get a refreshing, 10- or 15-minute massage ev-

Organizing For the Season – 10:30am-12pm. Professional organizer Judy Tiger, owner of DC-based Just That Simple, shares tips on putting away winter clothes and organizing for spring and summer. Laurel Beltsville Senior Activity Center, 7120 Contee Road, Laurel. Registration required: 301-206-3350.

Just-That-Simple.net.

Wednesdays with Tara Brach – 7:30-9pm. Class includes 30-min of Vipassana meditation instruction and guided meditation followed by an hour-long Dharma talk. A large gathering of approximately 250-300 people. Beginners through advanced students welcome. There is no registration, but dana (donation) of about $10-$15 is suggested to help cover expenses and is gratefully received. River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6301 River Rd (corner of Whittier Blvd & River Rd), Bethesda, MD. For more info: Imcw.com.

Blessing Circle – 9:15-9:45pm. 2nd Wed. The Insight Meditation Community of Washington offers the Blessing Circle to comfort and support those experiencing loss, grief, illness or any of the “10,000 sorrows” of this life. We gather after the Wed class with Tara Brach for a 30-min service of sharing, mindful and supportive listening and metta practice. Together we offer blessings to all in need as we take refuge together in the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6301 River Rd (enter from Whittier Blvd), Bethesda. More info: Imcw.org.

thursday FreshFarm Market at Penn Quarter – 3-7pm.

Delicious locally grown fruits, veggies, cut flowers, plants, handmade soaps, meats, cheeses, eggs and more are available every week. Market is open rain, snow or shine. This year introducing a Matching Dollars program to this market and will give $15 free Matching Dollars to low-income shoppers using their SNAP, WIC or SFMNP coupons. North end of 8th St NW, between D & E sts NW. More info: 202-362-8889.

friday Yoga for People Living With Cancer & Their Caregivers – 2-3pm. A relaxing hour of yoga taught by yoga therapist Yael Flusberg. The class combines breathwork, gentle movement and guided visualization. GW University Hospital, 900 23rd St NW, DC. RSVP, Jennifer Bires: 202-741-2218 or JBires@Mfa.Gwu.edu.

saturday Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market – 9am-1pm.

A producer-only farmers’ market that supplies the Mount Pleasant neighborhood with local fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cakes, flowers, plants and prepared foods. Some producers are certified organic or use chemical-free methods, and the meat and dairy is free range. Producers are all located within 125 miles of Washington DC. Lamont Park, corner of 17th & Lamont NW. Info: Mtpfm.org.Pre-Natal Yoga – 11:30am-12:45pm. Blue Heron Wellness, 10723-B Columbia Pike, Silver Spring. 301-7543730. BlueHeronWellness.com.

The Saturday Series – 2-3:30 pm. With a different focus every month, this 4-wk series will set your foundation to deepen the yoga practice as it relates to your life. $35/drop-in, $100/series. The Yoga Fusion Studio, 4609 Willow Ln, Bethesda. Register: TheYogaFusionStudio.com.

GROW Your Business For more information about advertising and how you can participate in Natural Awakenings Washington, D.C., call

202-505-4835

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communityresourceguide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide, email Robin@NaturalAwakeningsDC.com to request our media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE CITY ACUPUNCTURE CIRCLE

1221 Connecticut Ave, Ste 5B, NW, DC 202-300-8428 CityAcupunctureCircle.com Safe, affordable acupuncture care. Pay what you can, $20-$50 per treatment. Join the Community Acupuncture movement.

ARTS & DANCE

We provide acupuncture and Intuitive Reiki services. Our mission is to heal our patients, ourselves, each other and our communities. See ad, page 7.

Joy of Motion Dance Center teaches and encourages people of all ages to integrate dance into their lives for better individual and community health and well-being.

2841 Hartland Rd, Ste 207, Falls Church 703-667-0465 WellnessWithNature.com

Offering traditional ayurvedic bodywork and energy work for health and balance. Urban pancha karma, health counseling and other techniques to encourage a healthy lifestyle.

CONSULTING

OURSPACE ACUPUNCTURE 809 Easley St, Silver Spring, MD 301-388-8085 OurSpaceAcupuncture.org

Natural, affordable, safe, holistic health care in a comfortable community setting.

We ask for $15-$40 per session. Schedule your appointment online today.

GRACE PRODUCTIONS

Grace Ogden, Principal 301-445-6771 • GraceProductions.com Grace@GraceProductions.com Grace Ogden leads this consulting and event production firm that supports progressive social change with an awareness of why spiritual principles and practices matter.

See ad, page 23.

REVIVE COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE 3808 34th St, Mt. Rainier, MD 301-864-1975 Revive-Acupuncture.com

$15-$35 acupuncture. Open Tuesday/Thursday, 2-7pm, Wednesday/Friday/Saturday, 10am-2pm. Convenient to Brookland, Chillum, H St, the Hill, Hyattsville, Cheverly. Free parking. Walk-ins welcome.

ARCHITECT

COUNSELING MARY KENDELL, MS, NP

Couples Therapy GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055, 202-300-4981 Gwcim.com • SexMatters2Me@gmail.com

HELICON WORKS

7108 Holly Ave, Takoma Park 301-404-5578 HeliconWorks.com Ecologically sensitive architecture and building practices, responding to people and place.

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With over 20 years of experience, D r. N a t a l i e K o r y t n y k i s a psychologist with an expertise in relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, work stress, eating disorders and self-esteem.

1333 H St NE, DC 202-399-6763 • JoyOfMotion.org

APURVA AYURVEDA HEALING CENTER

202-630-2435 • Adam@IxChelWellness.com IxChelWellness.com

Individual & Couples Therapy 3 Washington Circle, NW, DC 202-296-5959 • DrNatalieK.com

JOY OF MOTION DANCE CENTER

AYURVEDA IX CHEL WELLNESS

NATALIE X. KORYTNYK, PHD

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Evaluation, treatment, counseling, and education for all sexual health concerns. See ad, page 2.

GARDENING LOVE & CARROTS 1921 1st St NE, DC 802-363-9643 Love&Carrots.com

Love & Carrots is a home gardening service that teaches families how to grow their own food.

They design, install and maintain organically grown vegetable gardens.

SACRED ROOTS

301-452-2075 SacredRoots@ymail.com SacredRoots.shutterfly.com

Services, classes and events that focus on organic gardening, herbal healing wisdom and honoring the sacredness of our Earth and all of life.

HEALTH CLUB ONE WORLD FITNESS 1738 14th St NW, DC 202-510-0433 OneWorldFitness.com

One World Fitness is a unique wellness training and fitness studio that focuses on your goals and your health.

Our certified wellness counselors act as guides and consultants, assisting you to reach your fitness goals, and helping you to cultivate a healthier life. We have helped hundreds of people at all fitness levels reach their goals.

HEALTHY PETS THE BIG BAD WOOF

5501 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 117 Carroll St NW, Old Takoma, DC 301-403-8957 TheBigBadWoof.com T h e B i g B a d Wo o f i s a community resource for companion animals and their guardians. We are committed to providing nutritious foods for companion animals whether they are dogs, cats, small mammals, birds or fish. We provide access to organic, holistic and premium raw diets and a wide range of alternatives including holistic supplements for companion animals. See ad, page 7.

HOME IMPROVEMENT AMICUS GREEN BUILDING CENTER 301-571-8590 AMICUSGreen.com

A home improvement store full of materials that maximize health, eco-friendliness, water and energy savings, with expertise to make any project greener and smoother.

HOME ORGANIZATION JUST THAT SIMPLE Just-That-Simple.net

Home and office organizing and move preparation services with a personalized, nonjudgmental approach, JTS helps tame “all clutter in all rooms.” You can find, use and put away things in relaxing, productive spaces. See ad, page 22.

HOUSE CLEANING THE GREEN MOP TheGreenMop.com 703-647-9094

We are an eco-friendly (green) cleaning company that cleans residential homes as well as businesses. No bleach. No ammonia. Naturally clean.

INDIGO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CLINIC 1010 Wisconsin Ave, Ste 660, DC 202-298-9131 IndigoHealthClinic.com

The body has an innate ability to heal itself and achieve balance from everyday stressors through non-toxic, non-aggressive and highly effective modalities.

MIKHAIL KOGAN, MD

GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 Gwcim.com Dr. Kogan is Medical Director of GW Center for Integrative Medicine where he provides integrative consultations and primary care. In addition, he does geriatric consultations at GW University Hospital and makes home visits to frail patients. See ad, page 2.

LIFE COACH SEE POTENTIAL LIFE COACHING 202-280-3349 info@lifepotentialist.com LifePotentialist.com

Create positive growth in all areas of life with a ff o r d a b l e l i f e coaching — greater work/life balance, career development, stress management, wellness, and stronger leadership skills.

See ad, page 26.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE ANGELA GABRIEL, MSOM, LAC, CH GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055, 202-300-4981 Gwcim.com

Classical Chinese medicine, Japanese-style acupuncture, pain and stress management, chronic issues, family care, women’s health, pregnancy, children, Kiiko Matsumoto-style acupuncture, moxibustion, integrative medicine.

See ad, page 2.

GW CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 908 New Hampshire Ave, NW, DC 202-833-5055 Gwcim.com

A clinic that effectively combines use of traditional and conventional evidence-based medical practices through a variety of complementary and alternative therapies and has many years of close collaboration with George Washington University Medical Center and a variety of physicians in most subspecialties. See ad, page 2.

MASSAGE MASSAGE2DAY

301-717-2652 VeraPereira_2000@yahoo.com With more than 15 years experience and advanced training in neuromuscular therapy, Vera helps her clients regain their strength and fluidity. In Takoma Park.

MEDITATION HUGH BYRNE, PhD Hugh-Byrne.com

Mindfulness-based counseling and meditation instruction. Dr. Byrne teaches classes, retreats, and workshops on Buddhism and meditation in the Washington DC area and nationwide and provides individual counseling.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIANS CENTER FOR NATURAL HEALING

4601 Connecticut Ave, NW, Ste 6, DC 20008 202-244-4545 CenterForNaturalHealing.biz Dr. Sullivan is a Naturopathic/Homeopathic physician, specializing in homeopathic and botanical medicine, clinical nutrition and diets for blood types. She treats people, not just conditions.

ALOE WELLNESS

5840 MacArthur Blvd NW, Ste 2, DC 202-966-2563 AloeWellnessDC.com Our Naturopathic physicians, acupuncturist, massage therapist, reiki practitioner, and life coach provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to achieving optimal health and wellness.

NUTRITION BLEU HARVEST

A Personal Chef Service BleuHarvest.com Customized meals.

I do the shopping, planning, cooking, packaging and cleanup. Experience with kosher, vegetarian, glutenfree, paleo, raw and other diets.

GOûTER

240-330-3674 Facebook.com/HeyGouter Handcrafting raw, vegan and organic treats, tonics and cleanses in Washington DC. Making a raw vegan lifestyle more approachable, fun and simple through our products and services; consume less, become aware and live sustainably.

SUPER FANTASTIC FOODS DC 202-660-2145 SuperFantasticFoodsDC.com

Super Fantastic Foods specializes in providing busy people with farm-fresh nutritious meals and a more convenient way to eat healthy. Simply choose your meal plan each week, let our chefs prepare your meals and we deliver them to your door (or arrange for a pick up). It’s like having your own personal chef service.

YES! ORGANIC MARKET YesOrganicMarket.com

Yes! Organic Market has provided healthful food, supplements and body care products at affordable prices for over 30 years. Visit any of our seven stores in the greater Washington DC metropolitan area. See ad, page 24.

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ORGANIC HOME & LAWN CARE SMITH ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP 202-375-1166 SmithEnvGroup.webs.com

THERAPEUTIC YOGA LINDA LANG

TherapeuticYogaDC.com Therapeutic yoga instructor and medical educator specializing in individual sessions throughout greater Washington DC area. A highly experienced practitioner, certified in the medical, therapeutic arena of Cardiac Yoga. Specializing in chronic conditions and degenerative disease.

Offers environmentally friendly residential lawn care and residential cleaning that is environmentally friendly too.

They also carry a line of environmentally friendly lawn care products. See ad, page 13.

REIKI LIFE HOLISTIC CENTER, LLC 570-868-6635 ReikiCenterOnline@yahoo.com LifeHolisticReiki.com

Our main focus is Reiki, a spiritual practice which promotes physical, emotional and spiritual healing. We offer Certification in Reiki 1 thru Reiki Master/Teacher Usui and Tibetan Style. Dr. Anthony received a Master/Teacher attunement on Kurama Mtn, Japan, the birthplace of Reiki. We offer CEUs for Massage Therapists. Reiki 1 Certification Program in McLean.

LUANN JACOBS, SLP/RMT

WELLNESS BLUE HERON WELLNESS

10723B Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 301-754-3730 • BlueHeronWellness.com Relax, rejuvenate, energize with acupuncture, massage, yoga, skincare and herbal medicine at our center or at your workplace.

DESAI HEALTH AND WELLNESS

202-599-0832 Anura@DesaiHealthAndWellness.com DesaiHealthAndWellness.com Eat healthy. Increase energy.

Reduce stress. No one approach works for everyone. Find out yours. Discover simple ways to making a healthy life easy and possible.

Luann provides treatments and trainings in the use of Reiki handson and biofeedback for self-care, and Reiki care of others. See ad, page 2.

ELEMENTS FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER 2233 Wisconsin, Ste 217, DC 20007 202-333-5252 • ElementsCenter.com

RESTAURANTS

Offering Pilates, GYROTONIC® Exercise, physical therapy, massage and more for clients of all ages. Experience the joy of moving and breathing freely at Elements Center.

AMSTERDAM FALAFEL SHOP 2425 18th St NW, DC 202-234-1969

SKIN CARE

HEALTHY SELF THERAPY AND WELLNESS CENTER 1875 K St NW, Ste LL-150, DC 202-463-5000 HealthySelfDC.com

JOELLE SKINCARE JoElle Lee JoElleSkinCare.com

Natural skincare products and services. JoElle SkinCare carefully selects each ingredient for its superior quality, freshness and potency. We use traditional ingredients in their purest form, pioneering a fresh new approach to therapeutic skincare.

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LIL OMM YOGA

4708 Wisconsin Ave, NW, DC 20016 202-248-6304

A friendly, community yoga center welcoming all ages and stages of life.

Offering open and honest teaching regarding yoga, well-being, family and spirituality.

THE YOGA FUSION STUDIO

4609 Willow Ln, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-656-8937 TheYogaFusionStudio.com Yo g a c l a s s e s , t e a c h e r training, health and wellness seminars, and community wellness offerings. We are your home for a loving and cohesive yoga family. See ad, page 14.

Y’S ELEMENTS

Reiki-Biofeedback Practitioner GW Center for Integrative Medicine 202-833-5055 • Gwcim.com

Serving top-it-yourself falafel sandwiches and Dutch-style fries. Open late 7 days a week starting every day at 11am.

YOGA

NaturalAwakeningsDC.com

Our goal is to provide our clients a wide range of therapeutic modalities that meet their needs both immediate and long term. See ad, page 3.

202-246-9592 YaelFlusberg@gmail.com • YaelFlusberg.com Experienced yoga therapist/coach available for group and individual sessions drawing from a deep well of creative, somatic and reflective methods to help you flourish.

BELOVED YOGA

2001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston BelovedYoga.com Beloved Yoga embraces all traditions and paths of yoga and our classes are designed to give you a complete yoga experience.

Our teachers come from different lineages offering you a wellbalanced practice and exposure to this ancient practice. One intention that you will find in all our classes is the philosophy of flow, integrating breath with movement creating a meditative space for the mind, body and spirit.

Bhudda b yoga

1115Y St NW, DC, Ste 202 202-588-5885 BuddhaBYoga.com Experience a place of refuge and a spiritual center where all are welcome! A Vegan Vinyasa yoga studio and JivaMukti™ Yoga Center Affiliate. Open 7 days a week and offering over 55 classes a week, including 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training. See ad, page 7.

eXTEND YOGA

12106 Wilkins Ave, Rockville 301-881-3330 • extendYoga.com

extendYoga strives to provide a positive, nurturing environment that challenges individuals to extend themselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. We believe in giving back to the community by participating in various charitable causes.

TURN YOUR PASSION INTO A BUSINESS Own a Natural Awakenings Magazine!

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A Festival for Heart + Mind

Featuring Leading Speakers Robert Thurman • Sharon Salzberg Ruth King • Don Miguel Ruiz, Jr. Khen Rinpoche Lobzang Tsetan and others Presenting An Evening of Sacred Music With

The GuruGanesha Band Featuring

Tibet Fest

Saturday, June 22, 3–7:30 pm Sponsored by International Campaign for Tibet and the Capital Area Tibetan Association

June 20–23 At Artisphere in Rosslyn Arlington, VA

Tickets + Schedule at:

buddhafest.org

2 blocks from Rosslyn Metro

Insight Meditation Community of Washington At George Mason University